The fourth presentation of the day was delivered by Sarah Buck, addressing the topic "Ancestral Knowledge and the GREAT Library of Nezahualcoyotl." Her talk offered a unique perspective on the importance of preserving and disseminating ancestral knowledge in the digital age. Buck began her exposition by highlighting the magnitude and significance of Nezahualcoyotl's library, comparing it to the ancient Library of Alexandria in terms of its cultural and academic importance. She explained how this library not only housed the writings of Nezahualcoyotl himself but also a vast collection of codices documenting the history and knowledge of the Valley of Mexico. The speaker underscored the importance of understanding what defines a civilization, arguing that the creation and preservation of information are fundamental aspects. Buck explained how Nezahualcoyotl's library was a testament to the level of development and sophistication of Mexica society, reflecting their ability to produce and maintain an extensive body of knowledge. A central point of the presentation was the discussion on the challenges of preserving and disseminating knowledge across different epochs. Buck contrasted the physical vulnerability of ancient codices with the challenges we face in the digital era, such as information overload and the need to ensure the quality and accessibility of data. The expert also addressed the issue of democratizing knowledge. She noted how, in Nezahualcoyotl's time, access to information was limited to an elite, whereas today we face the opposite challenge: an abundance of information that requires critical skills to navigate and effectively utilize. Buck concluded her talk by reflecting on the importance of combining lessons from the past with the opportunities offered by modern technology. She emphasized the need to develop systems that not only preserve ancestral knowledge but also make it accessible and relevant for current and future generations. This presentation not only illuminated the intellectual richness of Nezahualcoyotl's civilization but also raised crucial questions about how we can better harness our knowledge resources in the pursuit of sustainable solutions. Buck's talk reinforced the idea that the past and present can and should engage productively in our quest for a more sustainable future.
