University of Birjand Associate Professor Leads IFLA Committee to Historic First Award

The IFLA Library Services to Multicultural Populations Committee (MCULTP), chaired by Dr. Leili Seifi, Associate Professor at the University of Birjand, has been awarded the prestigious Dynamic Unit and Impact Award 2026 in the Quality & Impact of Work category. This marks the first time in the committee’s approximately 45-year history that it has received this international distinction.

The award was presented during the 90th IFLA World Library and Information Congress (WLIC 2026) held in Busan, South Korea. It recognizes the committee’s significant global contributions to the development of inclusive library services, strengthened international collaboration, and the promotion of culturally responsive approaches.

According to the University of Birjand Public Relations Office, the MCULTP committee, under Dr. Seifi’s leadership, has become a key platform for professional exchange and cooperation in providing library services to culturally, ethnically, and linguistically diverse communities.

The committee traces its origins to 1981, when it began as a working group within IFLA. It evolved into a round table in 1983 and was formally established as the Standing Committee on Library Services to Multicultural Populations at the 1986 IFLA Conference in Tokyo. Receiving this award after nearly 45 years of activity represents a major milestone in its history.

One of the committee’s most notable initiatives during Dr. Seifi’s tenure has been leading the revision of the international “Guidelines for Library Services to Multicultural Populations.” This ongoing process involves librarians, professional associations, specialists, and stakeholders from around the world to ensure the updated guidelines better reflect cultural, social, and geographical diversity.

Other key activities have included multilingual webinars, expansion of international professional networks, knowledge-sharing opportunities, and fostering global dialogue on equity, diversity, and social inclusion. These efforts have enhanced access to professional knowledge, amplified diverse perspectives, and strengthened librarians’ capacity to serve multicultural communities.

Jerome Fronty, Chair of IFLA’s Professional Division A, congratulated the committee, describing its work as an example of creative thinking, dynamic performance, and inspiration. He expressed appreciation to Dr. Seifi, the executive board members, and the international experts involved.

In commenting on the achievement, Dr. Leili Seifi emphasized that the award results from the collective efforts of committee members from various countries and their shared commitment to developing equitable, inclusive, and culturally appropriate library services. She noted that receiving this recognition during her chairmanship is not only an international honor for the University of Birjand but also demonstrates the scientific and professional capacity of Iranian academics to play effective roles in managing global programs and specialized collaborations.

This success highlights the active presence of University of Birjand faculty members in leading international professional bodies and underscores the university’s potential to expand scientific and professional engagement on the global stage. It further elevates the university’s profile within one of the world’s most respected organizations in the field of library and information science.

Further information:  
• Official MCULTP committee page on the IFLA website  
• MCULTP committee members and officers  
• Official IFLA 2026 Award announcement