Sharjah Book Authority showcases global library leadership at ALA Conference

Sharjah: The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) celebrated a series of strategic accomplishments during its recent participation in the American Library Association (ALA) Annual Conference, the world’s largest gathering of library professionals, held in San Diego, USA.

Through its active engagements, SBA showcased Sharjah’s global leadership in the library sector by promoting upcoming international library conferences, launching new initiatives focused on children’s content, advancing partnerships in database access and professional training, and exploring innovative technological solutions tailored to the needs of libraries in the UAE and the wider region.

One of the key highlights was a high-level meeting between the SBA delegation — led by Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA — and Sam Helmick, President of the ALA.

Discussions centered on SBA’s role in organising the Sharjah International Library Conference and the Sharjah School Libraries Conference, with a focus on attracting more global experts and specialists. The goal is to further strengthen the position of these events on the international library calendar.

The delegation also showcased SBA’s initiatives to enrich Arabic-language children’s literature and support early literacy development.

As part of these efforts, SBA is fostering collaborations with US publishers and library networks to introduce diverse, culturally relevant titles to young readers across the Arab world.

Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, said: “Our participation in the ALA Conference reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, who placed books and libraries at the core of the emirate’s cultural mission. This vision guides us as we engage with major global platforms, share the emirate’s experience, and help shape the future of libraries through cultural exchange and international collaboration.”

He said: “Under the leadership of Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA, we remain committed to strengthening global partnerships across the knowledge sector, particularly in libraries. The world today urgently needs such cooperation, as true progress depends on integrated systems and institutional collaboration across borders. Through our international conferences and initiatives, we seek to foster this spirit of cooperation and build a global knowledge network rooted in Sharjah and open to the world.”

 Commenting on the participation, Eman Bushlaibi, Director of Sharjah Public Libraries, said: “We presented a comprehensive overview of the Sharjah Public Libraries’ journey, which began with the establishment of the emirate’s first library in 1925. Today, our institutions continue to serve as vital centres for knowledge and community learning, supported by advanced digital infrastructure and interactive programmes. This participation offered a valuable opportunity to showcase Sharjah’s integrated library model and explore new partnerships with American institutions interested in engaging with libraries and knowledge hubs across the Arab region.”

 As part of its agenda at the international event, SBA held meetings with representatives from global companies, including Baker & Taylor and Playaway, where discussions focused on developing new formats of interactive children’s books to enhance young readers’ engagement with content tailored to their evolving interests.

SBA also met with EBSCO, where they explored plans to expand digital database access for libraries across the UAE. The two parties also discussed the design of interactive, applied training programmes to keep pace with sector developments and strengthen the professional capabilities of librarians and information specialists.

The delegation also engaged with specialised technology providers to review the latest smart systems and digital solutions for libraries. The discussions focused on upgrading digital infrastructure, aiming to enhance the quality and accessibility of library services for both researchers and the broader public.