The panel discussion “Integration between Specialized Associations, Libraries, and IFLA for the Advancement of the Profession” was organized in collaboration between the IFLA Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa (hosted at Qatar National Library), Ithraa (King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture) in Dhahran, the Special Libraries Association – Arabian Gulf Chapter, and the IFLA MENA Regional Division Committee. The event brought together leading experts and professionals to explore the value of collaboration in shaping the future of the library field.

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Participants in the panel discussion. From left to right: Mr. Abdullah Alhuwass, Ms. Eiman Alshammari, Prof. Dr. Hassan Alsereihy, and Mr. Mohammed Khabrani.

Representing IFLA, Dr. Eiman Alshammari – Manager of IFLA’s Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa, at Qatar National Library – joined the discussion alongside:

  • Prof. Dr. Hassan Alsereihy – President of SLA – Arabian Gulf Chapter
  • Mr. Abdullah Alhuwass – Director of Ithraa Library
  • Dr. Mohammed Khabrani – Member of IFLA MENA RDC, representing Saudi Arabia

In her intervention, Dr. Eiman highlighted the pivotal role of IFLA’s Regional Office in supporting 20 Arab countries. She stressed the importance of integration between professional associations, libraries, and IFLA to open channels of international participation and foster professional partnerships that serve the development of the field at both regional and global levels. She also emphasized the value of IFLA memberships in enabling professionals to influence and participate in the global library community, in addition to the significance of engaging in specialized and regional committees as a means to exchange expertise and strengthen professional empowerment.

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The panel discussion also touched on essential issues, including:

  • The role of professional associations in empowering library staff.
  • The impact of rapid digital transformation on the development of the sector.
  • The importance of training, capacity building, and professional development.
  • Partnerships and user experience as models for innovative practices.

In addition to the panel discussion, Ms. Abeer Al-Kuwari, Director of National Collection and Special Initiatives at QNL and Chair of the MENA RDC (2025–2027), highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation and integration between library associations, the Regional Office, and libraries across the region. She underlined the need to set clear future directions and to broaden participation, fostering a more inclusive regional community. Ms. Al-Kuwari also noted that wider collaboration would enhance the professional empowerment of librarians and provide Arab libraries with a stronger presence and clearer representation within the global IFLA community.

The Impact of the Event

The discussions affirmed that collaboration between specialized associations, libraries, and IFLA is not a secondary option but a strategic necessity to meet challenges and build a sustainable professional future. The panel provided a rich platform that strengthened understanding and integration among different stakeholders, opening the door to constructive dialogues that will help shape new directions for the library sector in the region.

The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) extends its gratitude to all participants in this panel for their preparation and valuable contributions, which not only enriched the discussion but also raised awareness of the importance of professional integration, reaffirming the vital role that Arab libraries can play in shaping a more sustainable future for the profession.