ALIA Information Online Conference is the biggest event in an information professional’s calendar. The conference has been held since 1990 and attracts over one thousand influential professionals from all sectors of the library industry. The conference program has a multi-sector focus and provides a unique opportunity for organisations to promote and showcase their products and services to a targeted and influential delegate group. Information Online gives access to key library and information service professionals from Australia, New Zealand, Asia Pacific, and beyond.

After the disappointing cancellation of ALIA National 2020 in May we were fully committed to the ALIA Information Online Conference at the International Convention Centre, Sydney in February 2021.

Unfortunately the recent COVID 19 outbreaks across the country and the resulting government restrictions on events and travel have made it difficult to deliver a successful and safe physical conference. We are aware that the restrictions would make it impossible for many delegates, speakers and exhibitors to attend the conference. We know the investment of time and resources involved in attending and speaking at ALIA conferences and in return, we are committed to providing the best conference experience for all attendees. In order to deliver on that commitment under the current circumstances, the Board of Directors have made the decision that the best way forward will be to re-launch the ALIA Information Online conference as a virtual event rather than a physical event.

ALIA Information Online 2021 ‘Access or Control’ will go ahead on Monday 8 February 2021. The event will be a one-day, fully virtual conference with the usual high-standard speakers, networking opportunities and a new virtual exhibition. We are aiming to bring you the same opportunities to connect, learn, be inspired and inspire others that Information Online has been delivering since 1990, just in a reimagined way. Our program committee, chaired by Vicki McDonald, is currently putting together an amazing program which will be released shortly.