Participation in EAHIL was made possible through Erasmus

By Julia Walz, Librarian
Department Zahn-, Mund- und Kieferheilkunde, Bibliothek
Hugstetterstr. Freiburg i. Br.

In 2025 I had the opportunity to attend an EAHIL event for a second time. Even though I wasn’t at the conference in Riga last year, entering the 2025 workshop in Łódź felt like joining a very familiar circle of colleagues and friends. We are a small enough community to make everything feel personal, yet diverse enough to bring in fresh ideas from all over the world (and not only Europe!). Besides actively participating in the scheduled professional education workshops, each EAHIL event brings with it valuable opportunities for exchanges with colleagues and commercial partners and sponsors.

This year’s EAHIL workshop took place in a beautifully renovated textile factory – modern inside, with the brick charm intact – right next to what used to be the owner’s villa (aka palace). Evenings were spent in small groups exploring cosy restaurants nearby, where conversations flowed as easily as the delicious pierogi were consumed.

Thanks to “Erasmus+” funding, I could take part this year, and this even came with a delightful bonus: a special programme showcasing in Łódź’s medical and library facilities. From bicycle desks at the Medical University Library (yes, pedalling while studying!) to swings in the University of in Łódź Library, I learned that “active learning” can be taken quite literally.

This year’s big topic? Artificial Intelligence and its impact on systematic searching. While AI tools have been multiplying faster than one can say “prompt engineering,” it was somewhat comforting for me to hear that the frantic pace may be stabilising – giving us a moment to catch our breath and keep our skills current.

A huge “THANK YOU” to the Local Organizing Team for creating such a well-organised, inspiring, and genuinely welcoming event. You made Łódź an unforgettable place to learn, connect, and share ideas!