At the opening session of the 64th General Conference of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions, new president Christine Deschamps stated her three priorities for the association's coming years: education, freedom of expression, and standardization. Also speaking at the opening session was Rick van der Ploeg, Netherlands state secretary of education, culture, and science.
Held August 14–21 in Amsterdam, the conference saw the first meetings of two new standing committees devoted to Free Access to Information and Free Expression, and to Copyright and Other Legal Matters. The new Social Responsibilities Discussion Group also met for the first time.
The 2,914 participants from 112 countries enjoyed a festive opening party featuring food and entertainment from around the world, a cultural evening at local museums, and other social events.
A full report on the conference is scheduled for the October American Libraries.
Posted August 24, 1998.