Participants thanked the UAE and its leadership for supporting and sponsoring the conference
The National Library and Archives and the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information Conclude the 33rd Federation’s Conference hosted by Abu Dhabi
The conference reviewed the experiences of the National library and Archives and major institutions in Oman, Libya, Sudan, Palestine... and others, in managing knowledge, contributing to knowledge economy and sustainable development.
The National Library and Archives and the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information concluded the 33rd Conference of the federation, which was hosted by the National Library and Archives in Abu Dhabi for 3 days under the theme: “Integration of National Information and Knowledge Institutions in the UAE: Libraries, Archives and Museums” The participants presented their thanks and appreciation to the United Arab Emirates and its leadership, the UAE National Library and Archives for the sponsorship and support of the conference and to all those who have contributed to its proceedings.
The recommendations of the conference focused on the importance of spreading informational awareness and culture among the Arab societies to ensure their transformation to information societies and the need to adopt effective programs in order to achieve this objective. The recommendations highlighted the need for the national libraries in the Arab countries and the public ones in particular to play their leading role in developing library practices, training their working staff members, laying down the necessary legislation, laws and standards for the Arab libraries, archives and museums and to follow-up their application and development; in order to keep abreast with the requirements of the digital age and enhance the ability of the Arab libraries, archives and museums to deal with the various crises they face by providing the necessary official and community support for their various programs and activities.
The recommendations also focused on the need to develop an Arab strategy to ensure the establishment of cooperation among the Arab libraries in general and the national libraries, archives centers and museums in particular. The recommendation stressed the importance of the role of libraries, archives and museums in achieving social responsibility and the goals of sustainable development in the Arab countries. Moreover there is a need to work on digitizing the Arab intellectual heritage published in various forms in order to make it available to researchers, and that attention must be given to the integration issue of the information and knowledge institutions in the Arab countries, the development of legislation, appropriate systems and tools in this field.
Recommendations also stressed the importance of information security in the Arab libraries, archives and museums to preserve their holdings and transfer them to future generations, in addition to the need to teach the integration of the information and knowledge institutions in syllabus  programs of the library and information science and the specialized training courses in the field.
It is noteworthy that the conference held in the last two days 12 scientific sessions, which dealt with important topics and issues, such as: the inevitability of digital convergence for knowledge integration in order to build the collective memory for the future, knowledge integration and strategic alliances with emerging Arab information systems, and the museums of Kuwait and their integrative role as a modern education tool in addition to its role in preserving and documenting the history of the country, the foreseeing role of the national libraries in the era of information and communication technology. The Libyan National Library and its role in collecting and preserving the national heritage, the role of the National Library and Archives in the UAE in supporting scientific research among university students, and the role of national libraries, archives and museums in the smart cities, and the integration of the roles and tasks among the national libraries, archives and museums.
Some of the conference sessions were focused in measuring the level of awareness of library staff in the Egyptian academic libraries, the role of intellectual capital in supporting the integration of knowledge organizations, the role of the National Electronic Medical Library in the Sultanate of Oman in facing the information epidemic to create an information impenetrable society, and the role of the Sudanese libraries in supporting the Sudanese national development plans and visions.
The conference also shed lights on the role of building knowledge maps in supporting the sustainability of knowledge institutions, the role of modern technologies and artificial intelligence techniques in facilitating information services in cultural centers and the role of Non-fungible token technology (NFT) in preserving and disseminating documentary heritage and open data in King Fahd National Library.
Among the research papers the conference discussed were: comprehensive knowledge platforms and their role in supporting the UAE strategy in applying  NFT technology in preparing museum manuscript directories, managing and investing digital assets in international and local museums, archive policies and legislation in banking institutions in Sudan, and the role of repositories in supporting the integration of information systems and tools, cooperation between national information institutions and their role in preserving heritage and the role of the National Library of Kuwait in preserving, documenting and protecting national heritage, government archive, the reality and hopes and the impact of the activities of national libraries in the Arab Gulf states in enhancing information awareness of beneficiaries.
On the third day of the conference, the sessions also focused on presenting the new publications of the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information, including standards and directories, and their importance.
The participants welcomed the announcement by the CEO of the Libraries Commission in Saudi Arabia that the 34th Conference of the Federation would be held next year in Saudi Arabia.

The National library and Archives and Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi celebrate the graduation ceremony of the 8th cohort of the Professional Certificate in Archives and Records Management

Abu Dhabi, 02 November 2022 - Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi and The National Library and Archives celebrated the graduation of the eighth cohort of students from the Professional Certificate in Archives and Records Management held at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi’s campus.
The celebration of this graduation ceremony is the outcome of the fruitful collaboration between Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, and the National Archives. The professional certificate in archives and records management has been developed to equip its graduates with the skills that would enable them to contribute to the consolidation of archival studies and supports efforts to strengthen the presence of qualified human calibres, as well as to train archivists to effectively fulfil their national responsibilities, and preserve records and memories of their institutions, which are part of the memory of the nation.
During his speech His Excellency Abdulla Majed Al Ali, Acting Director-General of The National Library and Archives said: “We are pleased to celebrate the graduation of the eighth cohort of students from the Professional Certificate in Archives and Records Management, and I am confident that our collaboration with Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, has now qualified them to keep up with the scientific theories, new concepts, and advanced technologies introduced into the archiving domain.
His Excellency then addressed the graduands, congratulating them and encouraging them to transfer their theoretical and practical expertise to their workplaces, he also thanked Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi for its fruitful collaboration with the National Library and Archives on the development of the various degrees in the field including the professional certificate, bachelor degree, and master degree.
Professor Silvia Serrano, Vice-Chancellor, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, congratulated all graduands on their graduation ceremony. Serrano continued: "We are always keen to provide the highest levels of education to enhance student skills and unlock their potential. We look forward to the contribution of our graduands in the establishment of a culture of archiving and to them taking an active role in preserving records in various institutions.

“Our ongoing partnership with the National Library and Archives, which has contributed to the launch of this professional certificate aimed at developing students' knowledge and enhancing their skills in records management and archiving, stems from our shared belief in the value of empowering calibres to preserve the nation’s historical documents in line with the highest international standards in order to meet the demands of both government and private entities," Serrano added.
At the end of the ceremony, the graduands who hold positions in various institutions including the National Archives of the Kingdom of Bahrain, ADNOC, ONE ECM, and the National Library and Archives were awarded their certificates by HE Abdullah Majid Al Ali, and Prof Silvia Serrano.
The ceremony was attended by Dr Majed Al Khemeiri Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Administrative Affairs of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, Hamad Al Mutairi, the director of the Archives Department at the National Archives of the UAE, and a number of senior officials and academics.
-End-

About Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi
Sorbonne University was established in May 2006, under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, and under license from the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK).
Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi is an Emirati university that benefits from 760 years of academic experience of the prestigious Sorbonne University in Paris. The university boasts a 93,000 square meters state-of-the-art campus located in Al Reem Island.
Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi follows the French Education System and Sorbonne University and University of Paris award its degrees, while all degrees are also accredited by the UAE’s Commission for Academic Accreditation.
Over 2000 students of more than 90 different nationalities have graduated from Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi to date.
For more information about Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi:
Visit Sorbonne Abu Dhabi’s website: http://www.sorbonne.ae

For any queries or requests, please do not hesitate to contact:
Tulip Al Harfoush
Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi
Phone: + 971 50 101 6769
Email: tulip.alharfoush@sorbonne.ae

Participants thanked the UAE and its leadership for supporting and sponsoring the conference
The National Library and Archives and the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information Conclude the 33rd Federation’s Conference hosted by Abu Dhabi
The conference reviewed the experiences of the National library and Archives and major institutions in Oman, Libya, Sudan, Palestine... and others, in managing knowledge, contributing to knowledge economy and sustainable development.
The National Library and Archives and the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information concluded the 33rd Conference of the federation, which was hosted by the National Library and Archives in Abu Dhabi for 3 days under the theme: “Integration of National Information and Knowledge Institutions in the UAE: Libraries, Archives and Museums” The participants presented their thanks and appreciation to the United Arab Emirates and its leadership, the UAE National Library and Archives for the sponsorship and support of the conference and to all those who have contributed to its proceedings.
The recommendations of the conference focused on the importance of spreading informational awareness and culture among the Arab societies to ensure their transformation to information societies and the need to adopt effective programs in order to achieve this objective. The recommendations highlighted the need for the national libraries in the Arab countries and the public ones in particular to play their leading role in developing library practices, training their working staff members, laying down the necessary legislation, laws and standards for the Arab libraries, archives and museums and to follow-up their application and development; in order to keep abreast with the requirements of the digital age and enhance the ability of the Arab libraries, archives and museums to deal with the various crises they face by providing the necessary official and community support for their various programs and activities.
The recommendations also focused on the need to develop an Arab strategy to ensure the establishment of cooperation among the Arab libraries in general and the national libraries, archives centers and museums in particular. The recommendation stressed the importance of the role of libraries, archives and museums in achieving social responsibility and the goals of sustainable development in the Arab countries. Moreover there is a need to work on digitizing the Arab intellectual heritage published in various forms in order to make it available to researchers, and that attention must be given to the integration issue of the information and knowledge institutions in the Arab countries, the development of legislation, appropriate systems and tools in this field.
Recommendations also stressed the importance of information security in the Arab libraries, archives and museums to preserve their holdings and transfer them to future generations, in addition to the need to teach the integration of the information and knowledge institutions in syllabus  programs of the library and information science and the specialized training courses in the field.
It is noteworthy that the conference held in the last two days 12 scientific sessions, which dealt with important topics and issues, such as: the inevitability of digital convergence for knowledge integration in order to build the collective memory for the future, knowledge integration and strategic alliances with emerging Arab information systems, and the museums of Kuwait and their integrative role as a modern education tool in addition to its role in preserving and documenting the history of the country, the foreseeing role of the national libraries in the era of information and communication technology. The Libyan National Library and its role in collecting and preserving the national heritage, the role of the National Library and Archives in the UAE in supporting scientific research among university students, and the role of national libraries, archives and museums in the smart cities, and the integration of the roles and tasks among the national libraries, archives and museums.
Some of the conference sessions were focused in measuring the level of awareness of library staff in the Egyptian academic libraries, the role of intellectual capital in supporting the integration of knowledge organizations, the role of the National Electronic Medical Library in the Sultanate of Oman in facing the information epidemic to create an information impenetrable society, and the role of the Sudanese libraries in supporting the Sudanese national development plans and visions.
The conference also shed lights on the role of building knowledge maps in supporting the sustainability of knowledge institutions, the role of modern technologies and artificial intelligence techniques in facilitating information services in cultural centers and the role of Non-fungible token technology (NFT) in preserving and disseminating documentary heritage and open data in King Fahd National Library.
Among the research papers the conference discussed were: comprehensive knowledge platforms and their role in supporting the UAE strategy in applying  NFT technology in preparing museum manuscript directories, managing and investing digital assets in international and local museums, archive policies and legislation in banking institutions in Sudan, and the role of repositories in supporting the integration of information systems and tools, cooperation between national information institutions and their role in preserving heritage and the role of the National Library of Kuwait in preserving, documenting and protecting national heritage, government archive, the reality and hopes and the impact of the activities of national libraries in the Arab Gulf states in enhancing information awareness of beneficiaries.
On the third day of the conference, the sessions also focused on presenting the new publications of the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information, including standards and directories, and their importance.
The participants welcomed the announcement by the CEO of the Libraries Commission in Saudi Arabia that the 34th Conference of the Federation would be held next year in Saudi Arabia.

Participants thanked the UAE and its leadership for supporting and sponsoring the conference
The National Library and Archives and the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information Conclude the 33rd Federation’s Conference hosted by Abu Dhabi
The conference reviewed the experiences of the National library and Archives and major institutions in Oman, Libya, Sudan, Palestine... and others, in managing knowledge, contributing to knowledge economy and sustainable development.
The National Library and Archives and the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information concluded the 33rd Conference of the federation, which was hosted by the National Library and Archives in Abu Dhabi for 3 days under the theme: “Integration of National Information and Knowledge Institutions in the UAE: Libraries, Archives and Museums” The participants presented their thanks and appreciation to the United Arab Emirates and its leadership, the UAE National Library and Archives for the sponsorship and support of the conference and to all those who have contributed to its proceedings.
The recommendations of the conference focused on the importance of spreading informational awareness and culture among the Arab societies to ensure their transformation to information societies and the need to adopt effective programs in order to achieve this objective. The recommendations highlighted the need for the national libraries in the Arab countries and the public ones in particular to play their leading role in developing library practices, training their working staff members, laying down the necessary legislation, laws and standards for the Arab libraries, archives and museums and to follow-up their application and development; in order to keep abreast with the requirements of the digital age and enhance the ability of the Arab libraries, archives and museums to deal with the various crises they face by providing the necessary official and community support for their various programs and activities.
The recommendations also focused on the need to develop an Arab strategy to ensure the establishment of cooperation among the Arab libraries in general and the national libraries, archives centers and museums in particular. The recommendation stressed the importance of the role of libraries, archives and museums in achieving social responsibility and the goals of sustainable development in the Arab countries. Moreover there is a need to work on digitizing the Arab intellectual heritage published in various forms in order to make it available to researchers, and that attention must be given to the integration issue of the information and knowledge institutions in the Arab countries, the development of legislation, appropriate systems and tools in this field.
Recommendations also stressed the importance of information security in the Arab libraries, archives and museums to preserve their holdings and transfer them to future generations, in addition to the need to teach the integration of the information and knowledge institutions in syllabus  programs of the library and information science and the specialized training courses in the field.
It is noteworthy that the conference held in the last two days 12 scientific sessions, which dealt with important topics and issues, such as: the inevitability of digital convergence for knowledge integration in order to build the collective memory for the future, knowledge integration and strategic alliances with emerging Arab information systems, and the museums of Kuwait and their integrative role as a modern education tool in addition to its role in preserving and documenting the history of the country, the foreseeing role of the national libraries in the era of information and communication technology. The Libyan National Library and its role in collecting and preserving the national heritage, the role of the National Library and Archives in the UAE in supporting scientific research among university students, and the role of national libraries, archives and museums in the smart cities, and the integration of the roles and tasks among the national libraries, archives and museums.
Some of the conference sessions were focused in measuring the level of awareness of library staff in the Egyptian academic libraries, the role of intellectual capital in supporting the integration of knowledge organizations, the role of the National Electronic Medical Library in the Sultanate of Oman in facing the information epidemic to create an information impenetrable society, and the role of the Sudanese libraries in supporting the Sudanese national development plans and visions.
The conference also shed lights on the role of building knowledge maps in supporting the sustainability of knowledge institutions, the role of modern technologies and artificial intelligence techniques in facilitating information services in cultural centers and the role of Non-fungible token technology (NFT) in preserving and disseminating documentary heritage and open data in King Fahd National Library.
Among the research papers the conference discussed were: comprehensive knowledge platforms and their role in supporting the UAE strategy in applying  NFT technology in preparing museum manuscript directories, managing and investing digital assets in international and local museums, archive policies and legislation in banking institutions in Sudan, and the role of repositories in supporting the integration of information systems and tools, cooperation between national information institutions and their role in preserving heritage and the role of the National Library of Kuwait in preserving, documenting and protecting national heritage, government archive, the reality and hopes and the impact of the activities of national libraries in the Arab Gulf states in enhancing information awareness of beneficiaries.
On the third day of the conference, the sessions also focused on presenting the new publications of the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information, including standards and directories, and their importance.
The participants welcomed the announcement by the CEO of the Libraries Commission in Saudi Arabia that the 34th Conference of the Federation would be held next year in Saudi Arabia.

Participants thanked the UAE and its leadership for supporting and sponsoring the conference
The National Library and Archives and the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information Conclude the 33rd Federation’s Conference hosted by Abu Dhabi
The conference reviewed the experiences of the National library and Archives and major institutions in Oman, Libya, Sudan, Palestine... and others, in managing knowledge, contributing to knowledge economy and sustainable development.
The National Library and Archives and the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information concluded the 33rd Conference of the federation, which was hosted by the National Library and Archives in Abu Dhabi for 3 days under the theme: “Integration of National Information and Knowledge Institutions in the UAE: Libraries, Archives and Museums” The participants presented their thanks and appreciation to the United Arab Emirates and its leadership, the UAE National Library and Archives for the sponsorship and support of the conference and to all those who have contributed to its proceedings.
The recommendations of the conference focused on the importance of spreading informational awareness and culture among the Arab societies to ensure their transformation to information societies and the need to adopt effective programs in order to achieve this objective. The recommendations highlighted the need for the national libraries in the Arab countries and the public ones in particular to play their leading role in developing library practices, training their working staff members, laying down the necessary legislation, laws and standards for the Arab libraries, archives and museums and to follow-up their application and development; in order to keep abreast with the requirements of the digital age and enhance the ability of the Arab libraries, archives and museums to deal with the various crises they face by providing the necessary official and community support for their various programs and activities.
The recommendations also focused on the need to develop an Arab strategy to ensure the establishment of cooperation among the Arab libraries in general and the national libraries, archives centers and museums in particular. The recommendation stressed the importance of the role of libraries, archives and museums in achieving social responsibility and the goals of sustainable development in the Arab countries. Moreover there is a need to work on digitizing the Arab intellectual heritage published in various forms in order to make it available to researchers, and that attention must be given to the integration issue of the information and knowledge institutions in the Arab countries, the development of legislation, appropriate systems and tools in this field.
Recommendations also stressed the importance of information security in the Arab libraries, archives and museums to preserve their holdings and transfer them to future generations, in addition to the need to teach the integration of the information and knowledge institutions in syllabus  programs of the library and information science and the specialized training courses in the field.
It is noteworthy that the conference held in the last two days 12 scientific sessions, which dealt with important topics and issues, such as: the inevitability of digital convergence for knowledge integration in order to build the collective memory for the future, knowledge integration and strategic alliances with emerging Arab information systems, and the museums of Kuwait and their integrative role as a modern education tool in addition to its role in preserving and documenting the history of the country, the foreseeing role of the national libraries in the era of information and communication technology. The Libyan National Library and its role in collecting and preserving the national heritage, the role of the National Library and Archives in the UAE in supporting scientific research among university students, and the role of national libraries, archives and museums in the smart cities, and the integration of the roles and tasks among the national libraries, archives and museums.
Some of the conference sessions were focused in measuring the level of awareness of library staff in the Egyptian academic libraries, the role of intellectual capital in supporting the integration of knowledge organizations, the role of the National Electronic Medical Library in the Sultanate of Oman in facing the information epidemic to create an information impenetrable society, and the role of the Sudanese libraries in supporting the Sudanese national development plans and visions.
The conference also shed lights on the role of building knowledge maps in supporting the sustainability of knowledge institutions, the role of modern technologies and artificial intelligence techniques in facilitating information services in cultural centers and the role of Non-fungible token technology (NFT) in preserving and disseminating documentary heritage and open data in King Fahd National Library.
Among the research papers the conference discussed were: comprehensive knowledge platforms and their role in supporting the UAE strategy in applying  NFT technology in preparing museum manuscript directories, managing and investing digital assets in international and local museums, archive policies and legislation in banking institutions in Sudan, and the role of repositories in supporting the integration of information systems and tools, cooperation between national information institutions and their role in preserving heritage and the role of the National Library of Kuwait in preserving, documenting and protecting national heritage, government archive, the reality and hopes and the impact of the activities of national libraries in the Arab Gulf states in enhancing information awareness of beneficiaries.
On the third day of the conference, the sessions also focused on presenting the new publications of the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information, including standards and directories, and their importance.
The participants welcomed the announcement by the CEO of the Libraries Commission in Saudi Arabia that the 34th Conference of the Federation would be held next year in Saudi Arabia.

Participants thanked the UAE and its leadership for supporting and sponsoring the conference
The National Library and Archives and the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information Conclude the 33rd Federation’s Conference hosted by Abu Dhabi
The conference reviewed the experiences of the National library and Archives and major institutions in Oman, Libya, Sudan, Palestine... and others, in managing knowledge, contributing to knowledge economy and sustainable development.
The National Library and Archives and the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information concluded the 33rd Conference of the federation, which was hosted by the National Library and Archives in Abu Dhabi for 3 days under the theme: “Integration of National Information and Knowledge Institutions in the UAE: Libraries, Archives and Museums” The participants presented their thanks and appreciation to the United Arab Emirates and its leadership, the UAE National Library and Archives for the sponsorship and support of the conference and to all those who have contributed to its proceedings.
The recommendations of the conference focused on the importance of spreading informational awareness and culture among the Arab societies to ensure their transformation to information societies and the need to adopt effective programs in order to achieve this objective. The recommendations highlighted the need for the national libraries in the Arab countries and the public ones in particular to play their leading role in developing library practices, training their working staff members, laying down the necessary legislation, laws and standards for the Arab libraries, archives and museums and to follow-up their application and development; in order to keep abreast with the requirements of the digital age and enhance the ability of the Arab libraries, archives and museums to deal with the various crises they face by providing the necessary official and community support for their various programs and activities.
The recommendations also focused on the need to develop an Arab strategy to ensure the establishment of cooperation among the Arab libraries in general and the national libraries, archives centers and museums in particular. The recommendation stressed the importance of the role of libraries, archives and museums in achieving social responsibility and the goals of sustainable development in the Arab countries. Moreover there is a need to work on digitizing the Arab intellectual heritage published in various forms in order to make it available to researchers, and that attention must be given to the integration issue of the information and knowledge institutions in the Arab countries, the development of legislation, appropriate systems and tools in this field.
Recommendations also stressed the importance of information security in the Arab libraries, archives and museums to preserve their holdings and transfer them to future generations, in addition to the need to teach the integration of the information and knowledge institutions in syllabus  programs of the library and information science and the specialized training courses in the field.
It is noteworthy that the conference held in the last two days 12 scientific sessions, which dealt with important topics and issues, such as: the inevitability of digital convergence for knowledge integration in order to build the collective memory for the future, knowledge integration and strategic alliances with emerging Arab information systems, and the museums of Kuwait and their integrative role as a modern education tool in addition to its role in preserving and documenting the history of the country, the foreseeing role of the national libraries in the era of information and communication technology. The Libyan National Library and its role in collecting and preserving the national heritage, the role of the National Library and Archives in the UAE in supporting scientific research among university students, and the role of national libraries, archives and museums in the smart cities, and the integration of the roles and tasks among the national libraries, archives and museums.
Some of the conference sessions were focused in measuring the level of awareness of library staff in the Egyptian academic libraries, the role of intellectual capital in supporting the integration of knowledge organizations, the role of the National Electronic Medical Library in the Sultanate of Oman in facing the information epidemic to create an information impenetrable society, and the role of the Sudanese libraries in supporting the Sudanese national development plans and visions.
The conference also shed lights on the role of building knowledge maps in supporting the sustainability of knowledge institutions, the role of modern technologies and artificial intelligence techniques in facilitating information services in cultural centers and the role of Non-fungible token technology (NFT) in preserving and disseminating documentary heritage and open data in King Fahd National Library.
Among the research papers the conference discussed were: comprehensive knowledge platforms and their role in supporting the UAE strategy in applying  NFT technology in preparing museum manuscript directories, managing and investing digital assets in international and local museums, archive policies and legislation in banking institutions in Sudan, and the role of repositories in supporting the integration of information systems and tools, cooperation between national information institutions and their role in preserving heritage and the role of the National Library of Kuwait in preserving, documenting and protecting national heritage, government archive, the reality and hopes and the impact of the activities of national libraries in the Arab Gulf states in enhancing information awareness of beneficiaries.
On the third day of the conference, the sessions also focused on presenting the new publications of the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information, including standards and directories, and their importance.
The participants welcomed the announcement by the CEO of the Libraries Commission in Saudi Arabia that the 34th Conference of the Federation would be held next year in Saudi Arabia.

Participants thanked the UAE and its leadership for supporting and sponsoring the conference
The National Library and Archives and the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information Conclude the 33rd Federation’s Conference hosted by Abu Dhabi
The conference reviewed the experiences of the National library and Archives and major institutions in Oman, Libya, Sudan, Palestine... and others, in managing knowledge, contributing to knowledge economy and sustainable development.
The National Library and Archives and the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information concluded the 33rd Conference of the federation, which was hosted by the National Library and Archives in Abu Dhabi for 3 days under the theme: “Integration of National Information and Knowledge Institutions in the UAE: Libraries, Archives and Museums” The participants presented their thanks and appreciation to the United Arab Emirates and its leadership, the UAE National Library and Archives for the sponsorship and support of the conference and to all those who have contributed to its proceedings.
The recommendations of the conference focused on the importance of spreading informational awareness and culture among the Arab societies to ensure their transformation to information societies and the need to adopt effective programs in order to achieve this objective. The recommendations highlighted the need for the national libraries in the Arab countries and the public ones in particular to play their leading role in developing library practices, training their working staff members, laying down the necessary legislation, laws and standards for the Arab libraries, archives and museums and to follow-up their application and development; in order to keep abreast with the requirements of the digital age and enhance the ability of the Arab libraries, archives and museums to deal with the various crises they face by providing the necessary official and community support for their various programs and activities.
The recommendations also focused on the need to develop an Arab strategy to ensure the establishment of cooperation among the Arab libraries in general and the national libraries, archives centers and museums in particular. The recommendation stressed the importance of the role of libraries, archives and museums in achieving social responsibility and the goals of sustainable development in the Arab countries. Moreover there is a need to work on digitizing the Arab intellectual heritage published in various forms in order to make it available to researchers, and that attention must be given to the integration issue of the information and knowledge institutions in the Arab countries, the development of legislation, appropriate systems and tools in this field.
Recommendations also stressed the importance of information security in the Arab libraries, archives and museums to preserve their holdings and transfer them to future generations, in addition to the need to teach the integration of the information and knowledge institutions in syllabus  programs of the library and information science and the specialized training courses in the field.
It is noteworthy that the conference held in the last two days 12 scientific sessions, which dealt with important topics and issues, such as: the inevitability of digital convergence for knowledge integration in order to build the collective memory for the future, knowledge integration and strategic alliances with emerging Arab information systems, and the museums of Kuwait and their integrative role as a modern education tool in addition to its role in preserving and documenting the history of the country, the foreseeing role of the national libraries in the era of information and communication technology. The Libyan National Library and its role in collecting and preserving the national heritage, the role of the National Library and Archives in the UAE in supporting scientific research among university students, and the role of national libraries, archives and museums in the smart cities, and the integration of the roles and tasks among the national libraries, archives and museums.
Some of the conference sessions were focused in measuring the level of awareness of library staff in the Egyptian academic libraries, the role of intellectual capital in supporting the integration of knowledge organizations, the role of the National Electronic Medical Library in the Sultanate of Oman in facing the information epidemic to create an information impenetrable society, and the role of the Sudanese libraries in supporting the Sudanese national development plans and visions.
The conference also shed lights on the role of building knowledge maps in supporting the sustainability of knowledge institutions, the role of modern technologies and artificial intelligence techniques in facilitating information services in cultural centers and the role of Non-fungible token technology (NFT) in preserving and disseminating documentary heritage and open data in King Fahd National Library.
Among the research papers the conference discussed were: comprehensive knowledge platforms and their role in supporting the UAE strategy in applying  NFT technology in preparing museum manuscript directories, managing and investing digital assets in international and local museums, archive policies and legislation in banking institutions in Sudan, and the role of repositories in supporting the integration of information systems and tools, cooperation between national information institutions and their role in preserving heritage and the role of the National Library of Kuwait in preserving, documenting and protecting national heritage, government archive, the reality and hopes and the impact of the activities of national libraries in the Arab Gulf states in enhancing information awareness of beneficiaries.
On the third day of the conference, the sessions also focused on presenting the new publications of the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information, including standards and directories, and their importance.
The participants welcomed the announcement by the CEO of the Libraries Commission in Saudi Arabia that the 34th Conference of the Federation would be held next year in Saudi Arabia.

Al-Murr: The cultural and creative industries constitute a real stimulant for economic growth and diversification in societies
The National Library and Archives Hosts 33rd  Conference of the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information, which started Today in Abu Dhabi

The proceedings of the 33rd Conference of the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information, hosted by the National Library and Archives were kicked off in Abu Dhabi under the theme: “Integration of National Information and Knowledge Institutions in the UAE: Libraries, Archives and Museums”, with the participation of a large number of officials, experts and specialists in libraries, archives and museums from around the world.
The conference was opened by His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed Al Murr, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Library and Archives, with a speech in which he welcomed the participants and the conference’s guests. In his speech he stressed the importance of cultural and creative industries which stimulate growth and economic diversification in societies. He said that these industries combined with modern digital technologies have become one of the most important pillars of knowledge and creative economy that is consistent with development paths.
His Excellency expressed his wishes for the conference to achieve its desired goals in encouraging dialogue and exchanging knowledge, distinctive creative experiences, and modern innovative professional.
His Excellency invited the participants to the ICA Congress, which will be hosted by the National Library and Archives in Abu Dhabi in October 2023, under the theme: “Empowering Knowledge Societies” in which experts and specialists will discuss the future of archives and their globally related issues.
After that, Ms. Barbara Lison, the President-elect of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) gave a speech in which she thanked the United Arab Emirates for hosting the event and commended the National Library and Archives for its efforts in organizing the conference. She stressed the importance of coordination between libraries, archives and museums as they are cultural institutions that form the soft power neccesary for the movement of the wheel of development and upgrading human life. She praised the richness of the topics the conference will discuss and the close ties between the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information and the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions.
His Excellency Dr. Hassan Awad Al-Suraihi, President of the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information, praised the role of the the National Library and Archives plays and the cultural events and conferences it organizes, and their importance at the local, Arab and international cultural levels. His Excellency thanked the United Arab Emirates for hosting the 33rd Conference of the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information.
He pointed out that the 33rd conference is more comprehensive than the previous conferences as it brought together national libraries, archives, document centers, national archives and museums, all of which are knowledge institutions that are concerned with preserving, managing and accessibility of knowledge. All these instituions are concerned with serving the heritage and memory of nations.
Al-Suraihi drew attention to the advancement of the functions of information and knowledge institutions due to the rapid developments taking place and said that the cooperation and integration of these important institutions in the state is vital for their continuous  successful performance and that what had prompted the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information to bring up this topic in its current conference, in addition to its continued issuing of the standard publications that support these institutions.
His Excellency Dr. Faisal Al-Tamimi, Head of the Arab Regional Branch of the International Council on Archives “ARABICA”, said in his speech: “The emergence of information technology at the end of the last century and the subsequent developments we witness today brought about a qualitative leap; these developments have contributed to the emergence of new service methods adopted by libraries and archives for the benefit of the beneficiaries. Therefore the responsibility for the validity, reliability and assurance of these information require the full cooperation and continuous coordination between libraries and archives in a manner that contributes to the creation of a conscious information society aware of the importance of correct and accurate information that are considered as an added value to the national economy in the era in which information have become an important part of the GDP of countries.
His Excellency urged the participants to work together hand in hand for rapprochement and participation in serving the interests of the Arab peoples by spreading the true image of the Arab civilization and authentic values of which the Arabs are proud.
The opening ceremony concluded with the distribution of two Naseej Academy Awards: Dr. Faten Bameflih from Saudi Arabia won the award of Scientific Excellence, and Professor Riad Radwan from Egypt won the award of Professional Excellence.
The Arab Federation for Libraries and Information distributed two awards: one for the best scientific thesis in the specialty of libraries and information, which was won by Dr. Amani Abdel Qawi from King Abdulaziz University, and another award for the best distinguished project, which was presented to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Library in Dubai, and the award shield was received by Dr. Mohammed Al Mazrouei.
The opening activities of the conference at Hotel Fairmont Bab Al Bahr - Abu Dhabi were followed by seven scientific sessions in which nearly 30 topics were discussed in information institutions in general and libraries and their digital content and challenges, archives and their services and distinctive experiences and their effects on building culture.
The activities of the first day of the 33rd Conference of Libraries and Information will conclude with a dinner reception hosted by the National Library and Archives to honor the guests at Hotel Fairmont Bab Al Bahr - Abu Dhabi.

The two working papers showcased the development and progress achieved by the UAE
The National Library and Archives participates in the annual conference of the USA’s Oral History Association (OHA)

The National Library and Archives participated with two working papers in the fifty-sixth annual conference of the Oral History Association held in Los Angeles, USA, from October 19-22, 2022. The National Library and Archives is a member of the OHA and it has great interest in the oral narratives that complement the written records it preserves.

The National Library and Archives’ participation in the annual conference of the American Oral History Association included a working paper presented by Dr. Aisha Bilkhair, Research Adviser, and another paper presented by Maitha Salman Al Zaabi, Head of the Oral History Department at the National Library and Archives.

The National Library and Archives is keen to participate in OHA’s annual conference; this year, it aimed at introducing researchers and participants to the UAE’s efforts to preserve the narratives that enrich the world library, enhance the value of the nation, increase understanding of civilization and heritage and the involved projects. Furthermore, it aspired to build bridges to exchange global experiences and learn about the best practices in oral history to impart honesty and distinction to it locally, regionally and globally.

In her working paper "Tales from Difficult Times: Oral Narratives from the UAE", Dr. Aisha Bilkhair illustrated the development, progress and prosperity that the United Arab Emirates witnessed in record time with the efforts of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his fellow Rulers of the Emirates, as well as the wise leadership’s approach of following in the footsteps of the founding fathers. She referred to the efforts of the UAE to preserve the memory of time and place, as the wise leadership is keen on preserving the history narrated by senior citizens, taking advantage of it, and compiling it in some publications that document the UAE’s history and heritage for posterity.

The paper sheds light on the Emirati society's aspects of dealing with life conditions, epidemics, climate fluctuations and other challenges. It also highlighted the emergence of a cooperative and interconnected society with values of tolerance and gender balance, and an identity branded by love of benevolence, giving and humanity.
In another session, the Head of the Oral History and Genealogical Studies Section at the National Library and Archives Maitha Salman Al-Zaabi presented a working paper entitled “The Oral History of the Al-Jazeera Al-Hamra Project,” in which she talked about the history of Al-Jazeera Al-Hamra, which is derived from primary historical sources and oral accounts indicating its most important landmarks. She also referred to the significance of the oral history in restoration and development processes, and the UAE's efforts to preserve its history.
It is noteworthy that the National Library and Archives is a member of the Oral History Association in USA, and it participates with working papers in the annual conferences attended by numerous academics and specialists in the various fields of the oral history, who come from the major universities of the USA and the world.  

The National Library and Archives’ Website Wins a Special Excellence Award
 
The National Library and Archives’ website has received special recognition for its distinguished advanced technologies which reflects on the work environment’s various levels. The website stands out as a comprehensive digital platform allowing the public, with high technical specifications, easy access to significant historical information of over 50 years of the glorious history of the UAE and the memory of the nation. The recognition came concurrently with the GITEX Dubai 2022, where Liferay company awarded the National Library and Archives’ website for its work environment supportive modern technologies which enhance the comprehensive management system and customers’ digital experience.

Commenting on the website and the received award, H.E. Abdulla Majed Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, said: "The updating and development of the website as an advanced digital portal, allows Internet users easy access to the memory of the nation through a documented and authentic historical platform that highlights and promotes the National Library and Archives’ corporate brand.

He added: "We ensured easy high-speed browsing through the site for all parties interested in research and publications on the UAE history. In the meantime, the National Library and Archives’ website, in its new developed and updated form, serves media professionals and students who seek to explore the UAE history as a key reference.

He thanked the National Library and Archives’ website development and updating project’s work- team who successfully managed to match and keep pace with the progress currently witnessed, through continuously keeping abreast with innovation and technical excellence, employing modern technologies towards preserving and allowing easy access to the memory of the nation.

Mr. Abdul Aziz Al-Amim, Head of the Information Technology Section at the National Library and Archives, expressed his great appreciation of the award the website received and his honor as it is considered a global testimony to the website’s high quality, historical importance, and distinguished content.
Mr. Al Amim said: "The updating and development of the website and platform displaying key stages of the UAE history is considered a milestone step on the next fifty years’ journey to which we are fully committed and which we take under the guidance and upon directives of our wise leadership.
Mr. Al-Amim stressed that the technological and content development and update the website has undergone came in line with the directives of the National Library and Archives’ Higher management, which always seek to highlight and promote the national role of the National Library and Archives, and its keen interest in disseminating knowledge and culture as well as instilling national identity and civic education in future generations.
Mr. Al-Amim thanked the Liferay company for global open-source website solutions for the award, which is considered a new testimony to the National Library and Archives’ website’s high quality and technical excellence.

Organized by the Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi
The National Library and Archives participates in a seminar entitled "Artificial Intelligence and Archive"

The National Library and Archives participated in the seminar organized by the Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, entitled: "Seminar on Artificial Intelligence, Archives and Documents", in which Hamad Al-Mutairi, Director of the Archives Department, highlighted the compatibility and interdependence between records and artificial intelligence.  It touched on some issues related to the application of artificial intelligence in archives and documents.
At the seminar, which was held at the Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi campus, Al Mutairi reviewed the aspiration of the National Library and Archives to employ Artificial Intelligence in archiving and documentation, facilitate access to the required documents in order to take the best advantage of them, and enhance accessibility and services to beneficiaries. He underscored the importance of using this new global technology in line with the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 and its aspirations.
Al-Mutairi focused on the phase of activating AI technologies in digital content management, i.e., beyond information automation, noting that the UAE Council for Artificial Intelligence and the blockchain is tasked with proposing policies to create an AI-friendly ecosystem.
He expressed optimism about the role that AI applications will play in the service of archives and their future usages, stressing the importance of adhering to the standards for Artificial Intelligence use in the field of archives.
The Director of the Archives Department pointed out that the Congress of the International Council on Archives, which will be hosted by the National Library and Archives in Abu Dhabi in October 2023, will discuss the most important contemporary and future archival topics and issues, particularly Artificial Intelligence and its role in supporting archival efforts, which represents a significant addition in terms of exploring the use of AI in the field of documents and archives.
Al-Mutairi concluded his participation in the seminar with a quote of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum: "The word impossible does not exist in our dictionary, it is not part of our thinking, and it will not be part of our future.   There is no ceiling for ambitions in the UAE."