On the opening day of the Sharjah Libraries’ Literature Award Forum, Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), presented awards to the winners of the 24th edition of the prestigious Literature Award, organized by Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL). The competition attracted over 41 research submissions from 14 different countries.
Eman Bushalibi, Director of SPL, remarked on the success of the event: “This year’s Sharjah Libraries’ Literature Award marked a significant milestone with a 37% increase in research submissions, a 75% rise in participating countries, and a 49% growth in researchers. Joint research papers surged by 120%, underscoring the award’s growing influence in advancing scientific research and fostering knowledge exchange on regional and international levels.”
Recognition for Outstanding Research, Institutions, and Projects
The “Best Research” award was presented by Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri to the top winners. First place went to Dr. Ibrahim Abd Elhady, Associate Professor of Psychology, and Dr. Maha Loay Hatem, Lecturer in Library Science at Alexandria University, for their research titled “A Proposed Strategic Approach to Activate the Role of Public Libraries in Promoting Green Sustainability and Enhancing Sustainable Behavior: Alexandria Library as a Model.”
Second place was awarded to Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Karthiyo from Algeria for his paper, “Enhancing Environmental Awareness and Education in Sharjah Public Libraries: A Digital Analytical Study of Activities and Events (2018-2024).” Third place was given to Dr. Ehdaa Salah Naji, Associate Professor of Library Science at Cairo University, for her research, “Towards Establishing an Arab Standard for Measuring Green Transition in Information Institutions: An Applied Study on Libraries in Egypt and the UAE.”
In the category of “Best Library and Information Institution,” the Mohammed bin Rashid Library in the UAE received top honors. The “Best Project or Practice in the Field” award went to the ‘Omani Research Repository’ (Shoaa) from Sultan Qaboos University in Oman.
MoU to Meet the Evolving Needs of Library Patrons
The opening day also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL) and the American University of Sharjah (AUS) Library. This collaboration, signed by Eman Bushalibi, Director of SPL, and Kara Jones, Librarian of AUS Library, aims to enhance access to information and expand shared resources.
The partnership focuses on expanding access to diverse resources, promoting lifelong learning, and fostering long-term, sustainable collaboration. Key initiatives include interlibrary resource sharing, joint professional development programs, and community outreach through collaborative events—all aimed at driving innovation, empowering communities, and ensuring equitable access to information.
Panel Discussions: Exploring Key Themes in Library and Cultural Work
The event featured three engaging panel discussions. The first, titled “Public Libraries: A Meeting Place for Cultures and Diversity,” included insights from HE Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Jarwan, President of the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace; Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al Ali, CEO of Trends Research and Advisory; and Jumaa Al Dhaheri from the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre. They emphasized the role of national libraries as custodians of a nation’s memory, with public libraries serving as vital cultural institutions.
Sharjah was celebrated as a leader in public library development, with a history dating back to the early 20th century, culminating in the establishment of SPL in 1925. The panel also highlighted the Mohammed bin Rashid Library, which houses a rich collection of rare manuscripts, books, and maps, and provides cutting-edge research resources.
The second discussion, titled “Information Institutions: From Traditional Roles to Shaping Awareness and Enhancing Identity,” featured talks by Ali Al Matrooshi, Local Heritage Advisor to the Government of Ajman, and Jamal Al Shehhi, writer and board member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library. They highlighted the essential role of knowledge in fostering cultural understanding and praised Sharjah for its role in promoting international cultural exchange through global exhibitions.
The final panel, “Libraries and the Challenges of Cultural and Knowledge Work,” brought together Dr. Nabhan Al Harrasi, President of the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information, and Professor Moatasem El Gheriani, Professor of Civil Law at the United Arab Emirates University. The discussion focused on the evolving role of modern libraries, the integration of technology, and the importance of legislation, such as the UAE’s Intellectual Property Law, in protecting creativity and innovation. The speakers noted that while libraries have embraced digital tools, they remain crucial centers for preserving knowledge and culture.
