💡 IDEATHON 2026
Build. Collaborate. Innovate. Transform Libraries.
What is Ideathon?
Ideathon is an intensive, hands-on innovation challenge where library professionals, faculty, technologists, researchers, and students etc., come together to tackle real-world library problems. Think of it as a hackathon specifically designed for the library and information science community.
On Day 2 of ETD 2026 (October 24, 2026), we're bringing together brilliant minds to collaboratively solve pressing challenges facing modern libraries. Whether you're a coder, designer, librarian, or strategist – there's a place for you in this innovation sprint!
How It Works
Real Problems
Work on actual challenges faced by libraries today – from AI integration to user experience improvements.
Form Teams
Connect with like-minded participants. Teams of 2-5 members with diverse skills work best!
Build Solutions
Dedicated workspace provided. Use any tools, frameworks, or AI assistants – creativity has no limits!
Win Recognition
Best innovations receive awards and recognition at the symposium's concluding ceremony.
🚀 Tools & Resources You Can Use
Bring your laptops and use any tools you're comfortable with. Here are some suggestions:
📦 What You Need to Deliver
- Working Prototype or Solution – Can be a working demo, mockup, workflow, or proof-of-concept
- Presentation (5-7 slides max) – Problem statement, your solution, key features, and impact
- 5-Minute Pitch – Present your innovation to judges and symposium attendees
💡 Bonus: Teams showing significant progress and working on concrete solutions may receive extended time beyond the initial 3.5-hour sprint if needed!
Potential Challenge Areas
Problems will be revealed on the day of the event, but here are some areas we might explore:
AI in Libraries
ETD discovery, metadata generation, chatbots for reference services
User Experience
Improving library catalog interfaces, mobile apps, accessibility features
Data Analytics
Usage analytics, research impact visualization, citation networks
Interoperability
Cross-repository search, metadata standards, API integrations
Who Should Participate?
This challenge is open to ALL symposium attendees! We encourage diverse teams with a mix of:
Ready to Build the Future of Libraries?
Join us on Day 2 (October 24, 2026) for an unforgettable innovation experience!
Register for ETD 2026 →