Doha: The 7th Arab Forum for directors of libraries and information centres commenced yesterday in Doha under the theme, “Towards Optimal Investment in Information Infrastructure and Knowledge Technologies.”
Hosted for the first time by Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Culture, the forum is organised in collaboration with the Arab Organization for Administrative Development, affiliated with League of Arab States.
The five-day event brings together a distinguished group of professionals from both public and private sectors, including experts in information management, knowledge technologies, and digital transformation from various Arab countries. It also welcomes directors of libraries, information centres, and archival institutions, along with representatives from library and information departments across Arab institutions.
The forum aims to highlight the importance of investing in information sectors and modern knowledge technologies while exploring ways to enhance library and information institutions using advanced knowledge frameworks to keep pace with rapid technological advancements.
In his opening remarks, Director of Libraries Department at the Ministry of Culture, Jassim Ahmed Al Buainain, emphasised that hosting this forum in Doha reflects the ministry’s commitment to developing library sector. He noted that this commitment is demonstrated through the adoption of modern best practices, enhancement of service quality, and strengthening of libraries as vital hubs of knowledge and culture.
Speaking to QNA, Al Buainain highlighted the significance of Qatar hosting this forum for the first time, describing it as a distinguished event where participants exchange expertise and successful experiences. He noted that the discussions aim to develop digital strategies that enhance institutional efficiency and open new avenues for information organizations across the Arab world.
For his part, Head of Digital Library Group at the Arab Organization for Administrative Development, Dr. Hassan Hussein Ali, stated in his opening speech that the forum aligns with the organization’s mission to serve comprehensive development in the Arab world. He stressed that optimising investment in information infrastructure and knowledge technologies is now a necessity for keeping up with global developments and enhancing the competitiveness of Arab countries and their institutions.
In an statement to QNA, Dr. Hassan Ali praised Qatar’s efforts in advancing libraries and for hosting this forum for the first time outside the headquarters of the Arab Organization for Administrative Development.
Regarding key challenges facing libraries in the Arab world, Head of the Special Libraries Association - Arabian Gulf Branch, Dr. Hassan Al Sereihy, told QNA that rapid technological changes pose the greatest challenge.
He noted that evolving user needs and limited resources require continuous adaptation and development of library services. He emphasized that libraries are no longer static institutions but must evolve dynamically in response to technological advancements.
Dr. Al Sereihy also stressed the need for libraries to embrace modern communication technologies, artificial intelligence applications, and innovative approaches, moving beyond traditional models. He called for forward-thinking strategies to reshape libraries into progressive, adaptive institutions that support sustainable development goals in Arab countries.
