QNL forum examines ethics, implications of AI in libraries

Qatar National Library ( QNL) hosted the Libraries Lead Forum 2024, with the latest edition focusing on AI and the role of libraries in ensuring equitable access to information in the digital age. The event, organised in collaboration with the 27th Annual Conference and Exhibition of the Special Libraries Association - Arabian Gulf Chapter (SLA-AGC), featured a pre-conference workshop followed by a special session.Titled 'Unlocking Digital Competence in the Age of AI: Mastering Essential Skills and Strategies for Librarians', the workshop touched on digital and artificial intelligence competence as a prerequisite skill for librarians in an ever-evolving information landscape.The workshop equipped library professionals with the essential knowledge and digital skills to better serve communities in the information age. The session, on March 6, highlighted the important role that libraries play as innovative and technologically advanced institutions responsible for not only preserving traditional values but also ensuring equitable access to information and cutting‐edge resources and services.The session on the second day of the conference was inaugurated by HE Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz al-Kawari, Minister of State and President of QNL. "Our co-operation reflects our shared goals and embodies our joint commitment to the development of libraries and industry professionals, equipping librarians with the skills to leverage artificial intelligence and technological innovations,” al-Kawari said. "Oil is a limited resource that will be eventually depleted. This is why Gulf countries share the vision of investing in alternative energy and diversifying our sources of income as we transition to knowledge-based economies. "Held under the theme "Libraries’ Roadmap to Digital Dexterity and Proficiency”, the special session featured a lineup of high-profile speakers who discussed the contribution of libraries to fostering digitally literate and empowered communities.The session brought together Tan Huism, executive director of QNL, Dr Achraf Othman, head of ICT Accessibility Research and Innovation at Mada Centre, Dr Susan Karamanian, dean of the College of Law at Hamad Bin Khalifa University, and Robert Laws, Data, Media, and Web Librarian at Georgetown University in Qatar.Tan explained that libraries have adapted over time to the changing format of the information carrier but access to knowledge remains at the core of their mission. "Whether it is the move from parchment to paper, the technological breakthrough of the printing press or bytes in the digital world, information is after all at the heart of our business,” she said.Abeer al-Kuwari, director of research and learning services, QNL , added : "The Libraries Lead Forum 2024 builds on our years-long efforts to advance the goals of equitable learning and unrestricted access to information, as evidenced by our unwavering commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the promotion of cultural exchange, which were the focus of the forum’s two previous editions.”