12th Sharjah International Library Conference Brings Together Global Experts To Discuss Libraries' Future

The 12th Sharjah International Library Conference (SILC) gathered over 400 library professionals, educators, and tech experts from 30 countries. Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) with the American Library Association (ALA), it was part of the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair at Expo Centre Sharjah. The three-day event focused on libraries' future in both physical and digital forms, celebrating their role in knowledge and community growth.

The conference served as a crucial platform for experts to exchange best practices. Discussions centred on making libraries more relevant in the digital era, enhancing access to information, and fostering innovation and lifelong learning. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, highlighted their collaboration with ALA as a model for international cooperation in library development.

Dr. Maria McCauley, ALA President-elect, delivered a keynote address asking attendees to consider the purpose and impact of libraries. She described them as spaces for learning and peace that empower individuals and strengthen communities. "As the hearts of our communities, libraries bring us together," she stated, emphasising their role as essential partners in fulfilling curiosity.

Michael Dowling from ALA thanked sponsors for supporting this year's conference. He noted a special achievement: several ALA books were translated into Arabic by the Emirates Libraries and Information Association through an SBA grant. This effort reinforced cultural collaboration between the organisations.

Dr. Sandra Hirsh led the first session, discussing her book 'Library 2035: Imagining the Next Generation of Libraries'. She invited contributors to share insights on future library landscapes. Dr. Hirsh stressed adaptability and community alignment as key lessons from recent challenges, urging libraries to prepare for unexpected changes.

Workshops and Innovations

Day one covered trends across various library settings like public and academic libraries. Topics included staff development, leadership training, literacy promotion, and integrating new technologies for better user experiences. Day two focused on practical solutions through case studies on organisational development and frontline innovations.

Pre-conference workshops offered practical training in teaching, AI integration, and technical services. These sessions aimed to equip library professionals with actionable strategies to enhance their practice. The 2025 edition introduced features like a marketing poster wall for publishers and a larger exhibition space showcasing advanced technologies.

Exhibitors presented innovative tools for information management and user engagement, making the event a hub for fresh ideas. The conference also featured a ‘Librarians’ Lounge’ where professionals could network and discuss challenges like digital equity and AI in cataloguing.

The event underscored libraries' evolving role as community-centred institutions that adapt to technological shifts while maintaining their mission of access and inclusion. It highlighted how libraries can remain resilient by aligning services with changing community needs through effective leadership and change management strategies.

With inputs from WAM