We’re excited to send out a reminder that the call for Ad Hoc Sessions at iPRES 2026 is currently open — this is the more informal part of the programme perfect for experimental ideas, networking, and rapid‑fire knowledge sharing. It is a great way to get involved in iPres, whether it is your first time attending a conference or presenting or your 100th.
What are we looking for?
Lightning Talks: These are high-energy, concise presentations covering recent developments, specific themes in digital preservation, or new project ideas.
Birds of a Feather: These are informal gatherings for like-minded individuals to connect as a community (e.g., students, first-time attendees, or specific interest groups) or to discuss niche topics without a rigid agenda. Because these sessions are not recorded, they offer a private environment for candid conversations and sensitive topics.
Games: We welcome any board, video, or tabletop game that explores, illustrates, or amplifies aspects of digital preservation. While games may still be in the “beta” phase at the time of submission, they must be fully playable by the start of iPRES 2026.
Something else: Do you have a creative idea that doesn't fit in these categories above? We are open to unconventional ideas and really excited to see what you are thinking about! It would be great to see what else we can facilitate at iPRES and we are open to new types of sessions and suggestions that you wish to run! This could be arts and crafts or informal show and tells of your favourite floppy disks or specialist group get togethers or something else entirely! If you have an idea please get in touch!
Why submit?
Low barrier to entry, no formal paper needed, and a great way to share early‑stage or experimental work.
How to submit
The Ad Hoc Programme is open until the 8th June. Use the submission form on the iPRES 2026 website.
All you need is to provide basic details such as a bit about yourself, a title, up to 500 words describing your idea, plus relevant themes/keywords.