To promote exchange and collaboration among libraries in the Asia-Pacific region and to explore emerging trends in public library development, the National Library of Public Information (NLPI) hosted the inaugural Asia-Pacific Public Library Forum on May 16, 2024. Centered on the themes “Smart Technology Revolutionizing Library Services” and “An All-Around View of Public Library Services,” the forum brought together experts and representatives from Korea, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Taiwan. Participants examined the impact of smart technologies on library operations and user services, and shared strategies and best practices in reading promotion and service innovation. The forum received enthusiastic feedback and strong engagement from attendees. 

Building on the success and spirit of the inaugural forum, NLPI will host the second Asia-Pacific Public Library Forum on May 14, 2026, under the theme “Strategies, Innovation, and the Future of Reading Promotion.” The event will gather experts and representatives from eight countries, including Korea, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, Japan, Australia, the Philippines, and Taiwan. Keynote speakers include Ms. Vicki McDonald AM FALIA, State Librarian and CEO of the State Library of Queensland and former President of International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA); Professor Takashi Nagatsuka,  Chair, Local History and Genealogy Section, IFLA; and Professor Chao-Chen Chen. They will offer both international and Taiwan perspectives on reading promotion and library development. In addition, 14 scholars and experts from participating countries will share insights across thematic sessions, with the aim of shaping a long-term vision and collaborative platform for public libraries in the Asia-Pacific region.