Under the theme of Their memory Our history, and with the aim of documenting and sustaining identity and heritage elements
The National Library and Archives Organizes an International Oral History Conference
The National Library and Archives organized the UAE International Oral History Conference under the theme of Their Memory Our History: Oral History Documenting and Sustaining Elements of Identity and Heritage. Participants in the conference included specialists, experts, researchers, those with distinguished experiences in oral history and senior local narrators whose memories enriched the third volume of Their Memory is Our History, which was launched at the conference.
The National Library and Archives attaches great importance to oral history, as it is essential to take advantage of narrators who witnessed the events before and after the union to document history, since eyewitnesses are more credible and reliable than earwitnesses.
His Excellency Abdullah Majed Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, inaugurated the conference with a speech in which he welcomed the narrators, participants, and guests of the conference. He stressed the importance of this conference because it shed light on the significance of oral history as a reasonable and effective tool of recording and preserving memory and bygone events.
Oral history constitutes an important source in the history of nations and peoples. Those who witnessed the historical events can give true account of them since they are imprinted in their memories.
His Excellency said that as soon as the National Library and Archives opened the way for senior citizens to document their memories in its records, they realized with their sense of patriotism that this is a national duty. Thus, they welcomed the NLA’s teams of experts and specialists who reached out to them across the UAE.
He pointed out that Article (4) of Federal Law No. 7 of 2008 has entrusted the National Library and Archives with the task of collecting, documenting, and preserving oral history material and making it available in the relevant scientific manner.
The Director General of the National Library and Archives expressed his happiness with the NLA’s achievements, as it compiled more than 900 interviews providing content for its publications which enrich the Arab library.
Dr. Aisha Belkhair, Research Advisor and Head of the Oral History Team at the National Library and Archives delivered a speech in the UAE International Oral History conference. She stressed the importance of the oral narrative which serves as a bridge between the past and the present through which our grandparents and parents’ traditions and values are passed down to the younger generations. It also acquaints researchers with the past to enrich historical research and enhance the harmony between civilizations and cultures.   This contributes to the sustainability of heritage and motivates generations encouraging them to preserve the "treasures of the Emirates" and its living memory.
She praised the efforts of the conference guests, including narrators, participants, experts and researchers. She also applauded the efforts of the oral history team at the National Library and Archives, and the support they receive from its senior management.
Participants and guests of the conference witnessed the launch of the third volume of Their Memory, Our History, published by the National Library and Archives, in the presence of many narrators involved in its topics.
The conference witnessed positive interaction between the audience and the speakers: Mr. Mohammed Saif Al-Nayeli Al Shamsi, Mr.  Siddiq Al Khaja, and Mr. Mohammed bin Salem bin Kabinah Al Rashedi. They spoke about the importance of preserving heritage the need to sustain it for successive generations, and the role of the UAE community in spreading tolerance and peace.
In the first session of the conference, moderated by Dr. Aisha Belkhair and entitled Oral History and the Future Memory, Dr. Mohamed Hassan Abdel Hafez, Assistant Professor of Folk Literature at the Higher Institute of Folk Arts, spoke about the importance of oral history in preserving identity. He also praised what the National Library and Archives offers within the framework of the oral history project in which the United Arab Emirates is interested with a focus on folklore and heritage, which the world did not incorporate in the priorities of the oral history.
Then, Mr. Jumaa Bin Thalith Al-Humairi, Director of Heritage Projects at the Emirates Diving Association, spoke about his experience in collecting oral history. He pointed out that the researcher in the field of oral history must have the ability to interact with the elderly narrators and the skill to steer the conversation to obtain the sought-after information and memories. He touched on some amusing incidents which he experienced while conducting field interviews and documented in his books.
Prof. Saleh Al-Dossi Al-Zahrani, Graduate Studies Professor at the Department of the Education Principles and Management of the University of Jeddah, discussed data collection tools at the end of the first session.  In his research paper, he shed light on new software that can be used in preserving oral history and the importance of dealing with oral history as a science to which scientific research methods are applied. He gave a detailed practical explanation of the development of scientific research methodologies in this field.
The second session, moderated by Ms. Maitha Al Zaabi, Head of Oral History and Genealogical Studies Section at the National Library and Archives, is entitled Oral History between Field Work and Academic Product. Dr.Saleh Mohamed Allahebi, Assistant Professor at Sharjah university, began the session presenting his research paper which gave the definition of oral history preserved in the hearts and memories requiring experienced researchers to write it down. He also identified the principles that set its acceptable framework. Dr. Allahebi emphasized the importance of the narrator’s words expressions and articulation, and the researcher’s skill in posing questions, pointing out  that the four elements  of the oral history interview:  Researcher, narrator, questions, and recording tool.
Then Dr. Timothy Power, Archaeologist at the UAE University, talked about the impact of oral history on the development of Al Jazeera Al Hamra in Ras Al Khaimah. He shed light on the importance of the interviews conducted with some of its inhabitants as they provided documented information about the island in various fields.
 Finally, Ms. Suha Shaaban, independent researcher, spoke about her rich experience involving the compilation of the Aleppo Encyclopedia. She pointed out that the encyclopedia team comprised thousands of people who provided vast information prompted by their keenness to preserve the heritage of their homeland. This enriched the Aleppo Encyclopedia with popular proverbs, historical pictures, customs and traditions, arts and various memories that are preserved in Aleppo memory. The encyclopedia also introduced the distinguished personalities of the ancient city of Aleppo.
The conference recommended that concerned institutions need to conduct surveys in the areas where there is a need to collect oral history, and to circulate their results to universities and research centers to be a field of work for researchers.  Other recommendations included a stress on the importance of training a group of academic and field researchers on the best and latest methods of oral history recording to unify the frameworks of interviews and collection processes, and to create databases of the surveyed areas and interviewed people to save efforts in field work.
 The recommendations underlined the importance of supporting projects of independent researchers by government  agencies, the cooperation between agencies and individuals in the interest of oral history, the importance of creating a supervisory body in the field of oral history, which includes all the emirates. They also suggested signing agreements with  bodies abroad to benefit from their experiences in documenting oral history, and linking academic curricula to it to benefit from its topics.
The recommendations also pointed to the need to appoint a committee inclusive of all the concerned emirates. They also called for preserving and documenting heritage, and counting social media in the sources of collecting intangible heritage as an easy and fast way to reach a large audience, as well as regulating this tool or source, in order to revive and sustain heritage.  
The conference concluded by honoring all participants.

H.E. Abdulla Majed: We are proud to meet Researchers and book-fair visitors’ demand for publications that document the glorious history of the UAE.

The National Library and Archives participates in the 41st edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair

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The National Library and Archives participates in the forty-first edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair, which is considered an international cultural hub, held under the slogan "Spread the Word".  The National Library and Archives participation in this major Emirati cultural event comes as a connecting bridge with the public benefiting from its various services and authentic documented publications on the history of the UAE.
The National Library and Archives’ participation through its platform that presents to the exhibition visitors the latest publications, including: (Ancient Desert Routes in Al Dhafra), (Tolerance in the UAE), (UAE History and Achievements), (The Andalusian Umayyads Diaspora), (The Arabic Language influence on Contemporary Spanish Names), (50 Words in Love of the UAE), and (Research papers of the National Library and Archives’ Second International Conference on Translation) in Arabic and English languages, (Zayed from Challenges to Union) in French, and (Qasr Al Hosn) in Spanish.
These publications are written by great renowned Authors and Researchers, such as: Ali Ahmed Al-Kindi Al-Marar, Abla Al-Nowais, Dr. Jayanti Maitra, Graeme H. Wilson ... and others, who are known for their diligence and accurate document-based historical information.
His Excellency Abdulla Majed Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, said: "As the UAE keenly strives to enhance the foundations of the knowledge society and economy, the 41st edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair is held among a large number of local, regional and international cultural events in the UAE. These major cultural activities indicate that science, culture, and knowledge are the pillars of modern society.
H.E. added: "We at the National Library and Archives join the UAE various emirates march towards the UAE (2071) centenary to assume its leading status among world countries in development and prosperity. We are keen to contribute to the dissemination and promotion of culture and knowledge to achieves sustainable development.
His Excellency stressed that the National Library and Archives takes pride in its publications displayed at its book-fair pavilion as they enrich it with a historical dimension of the UAE, which is sought by the bookfair visitors, and all interested in the glorious history and ancient heritage of the UAE.
H.E. also commended the National Library and Archives pavilion’s great turnout of researchers and bookfair visitors of various levels and affiliations.

The National Library and Archives Hoisted the UAE Flag to fly high and bear witness to the glories of the homeland, in an air of pride, patriotism and loyalty

In line with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai’s calling, the National Library and Archives celebrated the UAE flag hoisting, symbolizing the UAE sovereignty and national unity, loyalty and belonging, at its headquarters and its Center for Preservation and Restoration.
In the presence of the staff-members of both the National Library and Archives, and the Center for Preservation and Restoration, His Excellency Abdulla Majed Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, hoisted the UAE flag as a symbol of national unity and identity.
On this occasion, the National Library and Archives’ Director General stressed that its celebration of this dear National event reflects feelings of loyalty and belonging to the homeland, and its wise leadership that attaches great importance to the homeland and genuine interest in its people and spares no effort to document and preserve the memory of the nation.
The National Library and Archives Director General declared that Flag Day reflects the national pride in the UAE leadership, whose guidance and vision we follow towards greater pride, advancement, and progress, adhering to our national values and principles in which we take great pride, as we commit to maintaining the achieved national gains on all levels. The flag’s key role in promoting the values of loyalty and belonging to the homeland and its wise leadership, and preserving the national identity deserves from all UAE nationals and residents the utmost appreciation as a symbol of the homeland and its dignity.

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.

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.