Doha: The Seventh Arab Forum for Directors of Libraries and Information Centers in the Arab World concluded today in Doha. Organized by the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the Arab Administrative Development Organization, affiliated with the League of Arab States, the five-day forum was held under the theme “Towards Optimal Investment in Information Infrastructure and Knowledge Technologies.” The forum underscored the importance of investing in modern information and knowledge technologies, exploring strategies to advance library and information institutions, and ensuring they keep pace with rapid technological developments.
According to Qatar News Agency, Jassim Ahmed Al Buainain, Director of the Libraries Department at the Ministry of Culture, emphasized that hosting the forum for the first time in Qatar aligns with the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing the library sector. He highlighted Qatar’s efforts to adopt best practices, improve service quality, and strengthen libraries’ role as dynamic centers for knowledge and culture.
Al Buainain noted that the forum successfully showcased strategies for optimizing investment in information infrastructure and knowledge technologies. It also facilitated the exchange of expertise among library directors, information centers, and industry leaders, fostering the development of digital strategies to enhance institutional performance and expand knowledge-sharing opportunities across the Arab world.
The forum sessions addressed key topics, including the role of organizing information and knowledge as a strategic investment to enhance performance, increase productivity, and support innovation. Discussions also covered advancements in library and information management, the shift from traditional archives to digital repositories, and measures to improve the quality and accessibility of information for institutions and society.
At the conclusion of its proceedings, the forum emphasized the importance of sharing best practices and strategic plans, as well as strengthening cybersecurity measures to protect institutional data. It also called for developing guidance content to educate users on safe internet practices and data protection.
The forum’s agenda included discussions on the infrastructure requirements for building an information and knowledge society, the role of artificial intelligence in library services, and smart applications for big data analysis. Participants also had the opportunity to present their experiences and insights on digital transformation.
The event brought together directors and experts from the public and private sectors, including representatives from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt. Attendees included leaders in information and knowledge technology, digital transformation, and library and documentation centers across the Arab world.
The closing session featured a ceremony honoring lecturers and participants for their contributions to the forum’s discussions and activities.