LSMU Library Representatives at EAHIL 2026 – Presentations That Gained Attention and International Collaboration

The European Association for Health Information and Libraries (EAHIL) conference, held on June 8–12 in Antalya, Türkiye, brought together medical library specialists from various fields from more than 40 countries around the world. Lithuania was represented by three representatives from the LSMU Library and Information Centre.

The Head of the Document Acquisition and Storage Office, Lina Nesovienė, presented the human side of library system implementation at this year’s conference in her presentation “The Complexity of Success: Rethinking Library System Migration Through Staff Experience”. In her research, she analysed how major technological changes affect employees’ well-being, professional confidence, and everyday adaptation to new work processes. This topic is particularly relevant at a time when the University is actively implementing new systems. Digital transformation is not only a technical project – successful change also depends on how employees understand, accept, and adapt to new work processes. The presentation also received international recognition – it was awarded the “Best Oral Presentation” award.

The Deputy Head of the Library and Information Centre, Daiva Jurkšaitienė, presented the poster “The Role of LSMU CRIS in Enhancing Research Data Management Efficiency, Accessibility, and Transparency”, which got attention due to its relevance and practical significance. The presentation highlighted the role of research information systems in improving the efficiency, accessibility, and transparency of research data management, emphasizing their importance for evaluating the institution’s research activities and enhancing international visibility. Opportunities for collaboration and involvement in international projects in the fields of research information management and open science were also discussed.

Information Specialist Gabija Jurkšaitytė explored the evolving role of medical librarians in the research process in her presentation “From Resource Managers to Research Partners: The Emerging Roles of Medical Librarians”. The presentation addressed how, although librarians’ expertise is increasingly becoming an important part of research, their contribution is not always recognized as an equal research partnership – librarians are still sometimes perceived primarily as service providers. The presentation received significant interest from representatives of other institutions – G. Jurkšaitytė was invited to present this presentation at their institutions as well, sharing the insights discussed with their colleagues. She also shared ideas on how to strengthen the recognition of librarians as research partners and encourage closer collaboration with researchers. Discussions with colleagues from different countries showed that many libraries face similar challenges, and sharing experiences and solutions helps strengthen the role of librarians in modern research.

During the EAHIL conference, LSMU Library and Information Centre representatives also participated in oral and poster presentation sessions and attended high-level workshops. Throughout the intensive five-day programme, they not only shared their knowledge and experience but also gained new ideas from other conference participants, engaged in discussions, and strengthened collaboration networks with colleagues from around the world. The representatives value the opportunity to represent LSMU at the 2026 EAHIL conference.