In the rapidly evolving digital landscape of the modern world, Qatar National Library (QNL) stands out as a trailblazer in merging age-old library practices with pioneering technology. This forward-thinking institution took center stage at the Libraries Lead Forum 2024, co-hosted alongside the 27th Annual Conference of the Special Libraries Association – Arabian Gulf Chapter. By bringing together library professionals and industry experts, QNL sparked a significant dialogue on the transformative role of artificial intelligence (ai) in libraries.
Empowering Librarians for the Future: Unlocking Digital Competence and ai Skills
The opening workshop, titled “Unlocking Digital Competence in the Age of ai,” was designed to fortify librarians with essential digital and ai skills. In today’s fast-paced world, having a solid understanding of digital tools and ai has become indispensable for library professionals rather than just an added advantage. This interactive session granted librarians the opportunity to familiarize themselves with these skills, enabling them to continue providing exceptional community service in the information age.
Embracing Digital Literacy: Libraries as Catalysts for a Knowledge Economy
The forum’s keynote session, themed “Libraries’ Roadmap to Digital Dexterity and Proficiency,” featured esteemed speakers delving into the pivotal role of libraries in fostering digital literacy. The session, inaugurated by H.E. Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kawari, underscored the importance of collaboration and shared objectives in advancing the library sector. In his address, Dr. Al-Kawari emphasized the shift towards knowledge-based economies in the Gulf and underscored the vital role libraries play during this transition.
Leading experts from institutions like Mada Centre and Georgetown University in Qatar shared their perspectives on adapting libraries to the digital evolution. They emphasized the ongoing transformation of libraries, from traditional parchment-bound resources to digitally agile institutions, while maintaining their core mission: providing access to knowledge.
Cultivating Digitally Empowered Communities
Abeer Al-Kuwari, QNL’s director of research and learning services, underscored the forum’s commitment to promoting equitable learning and access to information. Aligning with ongoing efforts to foster cultural exchange and advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the Libraries Lead Forum 2024 represents a continuation of QNL’s unwavering dedication to these objectives.
The forum reaffirmed the critical role of libraries in the digital age—not merely as archives of information but as active, innovative contributors to the digital sphere. By arming library professionals with ai and digital skills, QNL is ensuring that libraries remain responsive to their communities’ evolving needs and continue delivering invaluable services effectively.
A Look into the Future: Bridging the Gap between Tradition and Technology
As QNL continues to chart a new course for libraries in the digital age, it is essential to recognize the importance of striking a balance between preserving traditional library values and embracing technological advancements. The Libraries Lead Forum 2024 offered an essential platform for discussions that bridge this gap, equipping librarians with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead their institutions into a future defined by digital dexterity and innovation.
