Enhancing Visibility and Engagement: Highlights from the IFLA Management & Marketing Section for Egyptian Library Professionals

On April 10th, 2025, the IFLA Management and Marketing Section hosted a significant event titled “Enhancing Library Services Marketing: Definitions and Strategies for Greater Impact” at the Maadi Public Library in Cairo. The workshop welcomed library and information professionals from across Egypt, including those from academic, public, and school libraries.

Featuring esteemed speakers Dr. Christie Koonz and Romeo Muvhulawa Matumba, the session delved deep into foundational marketing concepts and strategies tailored specifically for libraries. The focus was on increasing visibility, engagement, and service impact within their communities.

The interactive format of the workshop allowed participants to reflect on their own experiences, share insights, and explore applicable tools and methods that can be easily integrated into their libraries. In a country where marketing remains an emerging area within the library profession, this workshop proved to be instrumental in bridging a crucial gap.

Participants not only enhanced their practical skills but also gained new perspectives on effectively promoting library services. The positive response included strong interest in follow-up sessions and a proposal to establish a professional group dedicated to ongoing collaboration and insight sharing. This highlights the importance of professional development and innovation in sustaining the role of libraries as active and responsive institutions in the community.

The session addressed the basic concepts of library marketing and provided practical strategies alongside real-life examples to stimulate innovation. By showcasing the Maadi Public Library as a model, participants learned how to analyze their surrounding environments, understand user needs, and adapt services accordingly.

Overall, the workshop was a resounding success, equipping librarians with tools to enhance user engagement and emphasizing the significance of effective communication and impact measurement. Participants left the event with renewed enthusiasm and a robust network of like-minded professionals eager to continue their journey of growth and learning.

To watch highlights from the event, visit our YouTube link: Enhancing Library Services Marketing.