Sharjah International Library Conference 2025 Explores AI-Driven Future of Libraries

Dubai: The 12th Sharjah International Library Conference (SILC), organized by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) in collaboration with the American Library Association (ALA), brought together over 400 experts from 30 countries to explore the evolving role of libraries in the digital age.Speaking at the event, H.E. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, said the partnership with ALA reflects Sharjah’s enduring vision inspired by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, emphasizing that “nations are built through books and knowledge.”Keynote addresses set the tone for the conference’s forward-looking discussions. Dr. Maria McCauley highlighted libraries as spaces of learning, healing, and peace, while Dr. Sandra Hirsh of San Jose State University shared insights from her book Library 2035, focusing on adaptability, leadership, and the integration of emerging technologies.Major highlights included the launch of the UAE National Library & Archives’ AI platform ‘nlaGPT’, new strategies for digital collections by Overdrive, and hands-on workshops on AI, education, and technical services.The 2025 conference also featured new exhibitions, a Librarians’ Lounge for networking, and in-depth panels on digital equity and innovation, reinforcing libraries’ growing importance as community-centered knowledge and innovation hubs in an increasingly connected world.