See the recording here or scroll through the conference photos
Credits: Post based on the event report of Eva Semertzaki, Moderator of the conference
On 13 December 2024, the National Library of Greece (NLG) hosted a conference supported by IFLA and Knowledge Rights 21 (KR21) at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center in Athens. The event brought together librarians, policymakers, and advocates to discuss the current state of e-books, libraries, and copyright frameworks in Greece and beyond.
The discussions focused on the legislative changes necessary to allow libraries, academic institutions, and researchers to fully contribute to social and economic development. The overarching goal? To create a sustainable future where knowledge flows freely and widely.
Session 1: Global Perspectives
The first session set the stage with insights from key international voices. IFLA President Vicki McDonald outlined the organisation’s vision of empowering libraries to foster better lives and a better world, aligning with its 2024–2029 strategy. IFLA Secretary General Sharon Memis highlighted the need for collaboration, ethical copyright laws, and libraries’ vital role in sustainability. Stephen Wyber, IFLA’s External Affairs Director and KR21 management committee member, presented KR21 as a research partnership aiming to bridge the gaps in voice, focus, and tools such as copyright to strengthen education and reading ecosystems across Europe.
Session 2: Research on E-books in Greece
The second session provided an in-depth look at KR21-funded research on e-books in Greece. Preliminary findings, presented by Nikos Panayotopoulos, Giorgos Glossiotis (KR21 national coordinator for Cyprus and Greece), and Michalis Kalamaras, revealed significant regional inequalities in e-book access and low adoption rates. Factors such as educational background, digital skills, and cultural attitudes towards reading were identified as key influences on e-book usage.
A highlight of the session was the NLG’s Electronic Reading Room, which has successfully created a model for promoting e-reading through extensive e-resources. However, the presenters emphasised the need for Greek libraries to rethink their roles and services to adapt to the digital age.
Session 3: E-books, Libraries, and AI
The final session explored the transformative impact of AI on e-books and libraries. Marinos Papadopoulos addressed the legal implications of AI-generated works, noting that under Greek copyright law, such works cannot be protected. Maria-Daphne Papadopoulou discussed how the EU AI Act could support libraries in using AI for research and educational purposes.
Other speakers, including Roxana Theodorou and Dimitris Kouis, delved into the ethical challenges of AI, the evolving roles of libraries, and the need for a balanced approach to intellectual property. The session also highlighted initiatives such as the AMELib program, which provides accessible e-books for print-disabled users, though gaps in resources and standards remain.
Looking Ahead
The conference concluded with a panel discussion moderated by Eva Semertzaki, featuring voices from journalism, publishing, writing, and library science. Panellists reflected on the challenges and opportunities presented by e-books, emphasising the need for collaboration among stakeholders to promote e-reading and foster inclusivity.
The event underscored the importance of joint action by the government, publishers, and institutions to advance e-reading in Greece, ensuring that libraries remain at the forefront of digital transformation.
10 January 2025
