The National Library and Archives Unveils Survey Insights on UAE Libraries and Their Integration of Artificial Intelligence

The National Library and Archives (NLA) unveils the findings of a survey study conducted in 2024 on the current state of libraries in the United Arab Emirates. Focusing on different types of libraries, the study assessed their current status, their impact on education and cultural development, and the range of knowledge resources, services, and activities they provide to the public.
The study also shed light on the approaches taken by libraries toward embracing AI technologies, along with the challenges they face in this field, in line with the national strategic vision for digital transformation and knowledge society building.
The virtual lecture began with a speech by Mr. Hamad Al Hamiri, Director of the Research and Knowledge Services Department at the National Library and Archives. He emphasized the importance of this study in providing fresh insights into the current state of libraries in the UAE, highlighting the transformative role of artificial intelligence in the library sector and its potential to enhance information services and improve the library work environment to benefit both professionals and library users alike.
Dr. Emad Abu Eid, an expert in libraries and social responsibility, unveiled key insights from the study, highlighting the quantitative and qualitative distribution of libraries and their staff, emerging digital trends, and the media platforms they utilize. He also reviewed the libraries’ collections, technical tools, services, and programs, while assessing their readiness to embrace AI initiatives. Additionally, Dr. Abu Eid emphasized the measurement of user satisfaction and the collection of constructive feedback to further enhance library services.
The study examined various aspects of libraries, including their buildings and facilities, collections and acquisitions, educational and cultural programs, automated systems and digital repositories, digital transformation technologies, available equipment and devices, research tools, and public communication channels.
Furthermore, the study recorded librarians’ observations on opportunities for improving library work, particularly in areas of technology and digital transformation, professional development, institutional collaboration, community services, and resource management.
The study also explored the relationship between artificial intelligence and libraries in the UAE. It assessed staff knowledge of AI technologies and applications, identified AI tools currently in use in libraries, along with the challenges faced in this area. Additionally, the study focused on the potential benefit of AI technologies and proposed practical solutions to support their implementation in libraries across the country.
Conducted for the benefit of the National Library and Archives, the study concluded by presenting a comprehensive vision of the state of public, academic, specialized, and school libraries in 2024. The vision encompassed library infrastructure and human resources, offering a new analytical dimension to the study of AI integration in this vital sector.
Finally, the study underscores the importance of its findings in guiding library development and meeting the evolving needs of the community, reaffirming libraries as essential partners in the UAE’s cultural and intellectual growth.