De La Salle University-Dasmariñas proudly recognizes the international participation of Library Director Ethel Mendoza-Torres and AEA-IRC Research Coordinator Mary Ann J. Salvador at the 45th International Association of University Libraries (IATUL) Annual Conference, held from November 2–6, 2025, at Shanghai Jiao Tong University Library, China.
The duo presented their research paper, “Mapping the Concept of Futures Thinking in Libraries: A Scoping and Bibliometric Review,” highlighting how academic libraries can strategically adopt future thinking to drive innovation, resilience, and long-term impact. Their work was also featured in the poster presentation segment.
Ms. Salvador was awarded one of only four IATUL–Elsevier Travel Grants, joining fellow recipients from Malaysia, South Africa, and Bangladesh. Their attendance was made possible through the support of the University Provost and the University Research Office.
Before the conference, the delegates visited Shanghai Jiao Tong University Library and Fudan Medical Library for a benchmarking tour, gaining insights into global best practices in academic librarianship. Themed “Exploring Library Futures: Connection, Innovation and Impact,” the conference gathered library professionals worldwide to discuss trends in AI, digital transformation, smart libraries, and sustainable development.
IATUL is a global non-governmental organization composed of university libraries led by directors and senior managers committed to advancing information services and resource management. This initiative reflects DLSU-D’s commitment to research, collaboration, international engagement, and global linkages, contributing to global conversations and enriching local practices in academic librarianship.