A view from the floor: Participating in the 2009 International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) Conference

– The paper aims to present a short explanation of the complexity of the IFLA organization and specifically a descriptive account of the 2009 IFLA Congress held in Milan, Italy, 23‐27 August., – The paper offers the viewpoint of an attendee with some IFLA experience. The author is an IFLA activist and there is mention of the work of one specific Standing Committee, as well as the more general aspects of the major international conference for Library and Information Professionals., – The paper is intended to be a personal summary that would be of interest to anyone considering attending IFLA. There is an emphasis on the outstanding opportunities for continuing professional development and networking., – Whilst there are no practical or intellectual implications stemming from this paper, it provides a report of a major annual international conference of value to international information and library professionals.