Sharjah: The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), in collaboration with the American Libraries Association (ALA), has organized the 10th annual Sharjah International Library Conference (SILC).
It has offered key learning and networking opportunities to 250 participating librarians, academics, thought leaders, and other industry professionals from 14 countries who participated in the milestone decennial edition of the event.
The two-day conference at the 42nd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) covered a range of topics, from learning about current trends and beneficial emerging technologies to advance the library sector, to creating innovative spaces and services to engage readers more meaningfully. Additionally, the conference explored the positive impact of libraries on reversing climate change.
“The success of this conference, and our valued partnership with the American Library Association, proves that great things can be achieved when we come together through a united vision to encourage passion for the realm of libraries and the written word,” Mr. Al Hassani added.
Equipping libraries with the tools to nurture young minds the closing day of the conference was marked by a series of eight engaging discussions led by global experts in the library industry. The conference also shed light on the importance of school librarians in nurturing young minds, helping students cope with life’s challenges, and creating businesses, careers, and research centers within libraries.
Virtual reality (VR) technologies were also on the agenda, with unique perspectives on implementing VR in library settings. Additionally, the conference provided an excellent platform to discuss project-based learning, which aims to transform teaching and learning, foster critical thinking, and build resiliency.
To mark the conclusion of the event, the distribution of certificates recognized the contributions and achievements of the conference attendees, ensuring that the knowledge and experiences gained during the two-day event will continue to shape the future of libraries in the United Arab Emirates and around the world.