Qatar National Library (QNL) recently hosted the Libraries Lead Forum 2024, a groundbreaking event that focused on the role of libraries in ensuring equitable access to information in the digital age, with a special emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI). The event, organized in collaboration with the 27th Annual Conference and Exhibition of the Special Libraries Association – Arabian Gulf Chapter (SLA-AGC), featured a pre-conference workshop and a special session that brought together industry professionals and experts to discuss the evolving landscape of information dissemination.
The workshop, titled ‘Unlocking Digital Competence in the Age of AI: Mastering Essential Skills and Strategies for Librarians’, highlighted the importance of digital and AI competence as a prerequisite skill for librarians in today’s information-driven world. It equipped library professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to better serve their communities and stay relevant in an ever-changing environment.
The special session, inaugurated by HE Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz al-Kawari, Minister of State and President of QNL, emphasized the crucial role that libraries play in preserving traditional values while also ensuring access to cutting-edge resources and services. The theme of the session, “Libraries’ Roadmap to Digital Dexterity and Proficiency”, underscored the contribution of libraries to fostering digitally literate and empowered communities.
High-profile speakers at the event included Tan Huism, executive director of QNL, Dr Achraf Othman, head of ICT Accessibility Research and Innovation at Mada Centre, Dr Susan Karamanian, dean of the College of Law at Hamad Bin Khalifa University, and Robert Laws, Data, Media, and Web Librarian at Georgetown University in Qatar. These experts discussed the evolving role of libraries in the digital age and the importance of ensuring access to knowledge for all.
Abeer al-Kuwari, director of research and learning services at QNL, highlighted the forum’s commitment to advancing the goals of equitable learning and unrestricted access to information, in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The Libraries Lead Forum 2024 continues to promote cultural exchange and knowledge sharing, further solidifying the role of libraries as essential institutions in the digital era.