SPL participates in 88th World Library and Information Congress

Continuing its role as a key stakeholder committed to advancing the international library sector, Sharjah Public Library (SPL) has made its third consecutive appearance at the World Library and Information Congress (WLIC), which is hosting its 88th annual edition in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, from August 21 – 25.

SPL’s participation is aligned with the theme of the congress, ‘Let’s work together, let’s library’, and seeks to support the promotion of knowledge exchange and industry best practices in order to continue its role in empowering libraries worldwide to be the cornerstone of inclusive societies. During the course of its participation, SPL is exploring cutting-edge trends and technologies emerging in the library sector, fostering strategic dialogues with librarians around the world, and looking into new avenues of cooperation with global knowledge institutions.

On the first day of congress, the visiting SPL delegation met with the staff of prominent libraries in Rotterdam. At its pavilion at the IFLA WLIC, the representatives of SPL welcomed several IFLA officials including their President, Vicki McDonald; Sharon Mims, Secretary General; and Barbara Leeson, former president. The officials lauded SPL for their innovative programs and strategies that further boost their role as a global hub for learning and cultural exchange.

Emily Drabinski, President of the American Library Association (ALA) also visited the SPL pavilion to discuss collaborative strategies the two long standing partners will continue to undertake to promote the global library sector. Chief amongst them is the Sharjah International Library Conference, whose 10th annual edition will be organised on the side-lines of the upcoming Sharjah International Book Fair in November.

As part of a packed agenda of meetings on the first day of the congress, SPL met with their counterparts from Bibliothèque Nationale de France to explore avenues of collaboration across a diversity of cultural projects.

Eman Bushlaibi, Director of SPL, stated: “Our participation in this global conference reflects our commitment to building and strengthening bridges of knowledge and culture, and promoting professional exchange. By examining ways of cooperation and establishing strategic partnerships with our global counterparts, and by gaining first-hand insights into the world’s finest success stories in the field, we aim to reinforce libraries as gateways to science, knowledge and inclusive learning.”

The SPL delegation is engaging in a series of impactful conference sessions and workshops to enrich professional competencies in library management, learn about latest technological trends and stay ahead of changes. Its dedicated pavilion will continue hosting discussions with peers, leading industry organisations and companies to foster collaboration and partnership, and boost competitiveness through innovative perspectives.