As part of International Archives Week 2025, the ICA invites its members to submit proposals for Lightning Talks focused on the theme of archive accessibility. Selected talks will be featured during the opening days of IAW2025 (9 and 10 June) that will launch the week’s global celebration. 

Why Participate? 

• Showcase innovative approaches to improving access to archives 

• Gain visibility among a global network of archive professionals. 

• Challenge traditional methods and share bold new ideas 

• Explore how archives can become more inclusive for all communities 

• Engage in dynamic discussions. 

Whether your work involves physical access, digital inclusion, community partnerships, or policy changes, we want to hear how you’re helping ensure that #ArchivesAreAccessible. 

What are Lightning Talks? 

Lightning Talks are short, dynamic presentations designed to deliver key insights in just 10 minutes—5 minutes for the presentation and 5 minutes for audience interaction. These sessions provide a fast-paced and engaging platform for ICA members to share their work, projects, ideas, or experiences, offering fresh perspectives on important archival topics. 

Subthemes 

We welcome proposals that align with the four following #ArchivesAreAccesible subthemes: 

1. Overcoming Barriers to Archive Access

Accessibility in archives goes beyond physical entry—it ensures that all individuals, regardless of ability, background, or digital access, can engage with archival materials. However, barriers persist, limiting participation in the creation, preservation, and use of archives. Addressing these challenges requires targeted solutions that promote inclusivity.

Infrastructure and funding remain major obstacles, with many archives lacking the resources to invest in staff, technology, and tools that improve accessibility. A lack of awareness also prevents broader engagement, as many people do not know archives exist or see them as relevant. Technical challenges, such as outdated metadata and digitisation difficulties, further complicate access.

2. Harnessing Technology to Enhance Access

Digital technology is transforming archival access. AI-powered tools now enable transcription, metadata generation, and improved search capabilities, making collections easier to navigate. These advancements help reach users who might otherwise face barriers, including those with physical or cognitive limitations.

Collaboration is also key. Partnerships with community organisations, schools, and NGOs extend access to underserved areas, while social media and podcasts make archives more engaging and approachable for new audiences.

3. Archives in Society: Changing Perceptions

Despite their role in preserving memory and promoting transparency, archives are often overshadowed by museums and libraries. Their impact on cultural identity, governance, and accountability must be better recognised. Strengthening public engagement through education, digital platforms, and community projects can help bridge this gap.

Some communities may also have negative historical experiences with institutions, discouraging them from engaging with archives. Building trust through inclusive storytelling and community-driven initiatives is essential.

4. Inclusion and Representation in Archival Practices

Many communities remain underrepresented in archival collections, leaving gaps in historical records. There is a growing effort to diversify archival practices and include voices from different cultures, languages, and perspectives.

Grassroots initiatives play a crucial role in preserving overlooked stories. By working directly with underrepresented groups, archivists can help ensure that all histories are documented and accessible, making archives more inclusive for future generations.

Before you submit your proposal

You can send your proposal either in English, French or Spanish. Make sure your proposal includes the following elements before submitting it:

• Selected subtheme
• Title of your Lightning Talk
• 250-word abstract describing your topic
• Speaker name(s) and affiliation(s)
• ICA membership number
• Link of the initiative
• Related photos
• Please let us know your preferred date and time between Monday, 9 June, and Tuesday, 10 June.

Important Dates 

The deadline for submissions is 8 May April 2025. A panel of ICA experts from various professional groups will review submissions based on originality, impact, and relevance. Selected speakers will be notified in May 2025. The lightning talks will take place during International Archives Week, specifically on 9 and 10 June 2025. 

Don’t miss this chance to contribute to the global conversation on archival accessibility! 

Questions? 

If you have any questions, please send an email to communications@ica.org.