Access Lab

Access Lab is the name we give to our annual events, bringing our community together to share insights, best practice and the latest developments in access and authentication.

Our EMEA event took place in Manchester on 25 February 2026. We also host complimentary online editions tailored specifically for the Asia Pacific and Americas regions, taking place in July and November 2026.

Announcements for these upcoming events are coming soon, watch this space!

#AccessLab

I'd like to watch the Access Lab EMEA recordings!

Access Lab 2026 highlight reel

Access Lab 2026 – coming together to remove barrier to knowledge

Our EMEA event took place in Manchester on 25th February 2026, Here’s a glimpse of what it was like to come together for our annual event in person after 10 years. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make this year’s event so special!

What is Access Lab?

Access Lab is OpenAthens’ international conference, which takes place each year. Over the past decade, libraries, providers and library users have met at our annual event to discuss challenges facing the information industry. The event explores industry developments, provides real life case studies and holds topical panel discussions where you get the chance to ask the questions.

If you’re not sure what to expect, watch our 2025 Access Lab recordings and view our Access Lab resource hub.

Who should attend Access Lab?

Access Lab will be of interest to librarians, learners, researchers, publishers and to providers of digital content and services. Job titles might include: librarian/information manager, product manager, IT manager, researcher, and individuals with an interest in access to knowledge.

“I felt that every session was good and I learned a great deal. I will be having some conversations with my IT department on future authentication processes and might even come across as I know something!”

Access Lab attendee