The inaugural Sharjah School Librarians Conference, organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) over two days at Expo Centre Sharjah, concluded with the participation of more than 170 librarians, educators, and international experts, who gathered to explore the latest global trends in developing school libraries and empowering them as central pillars of the educational process.
Held in collaboration with the American Library Association (ALA), the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), the Emirates Library and Information Association (ELIA), and the Combined Book Exhibit, the conference presented a rich agenda of expert-led sessions, innovative case studies, and discussions on effective strategies for engaging students, families, and communities. A strong focus was placed on the use of digital tools and emerging technologies to support reading habits and broaden access to knowledge.
In a keynote titled “Connecting Reading and New Technologies”, Todd Burleson, Media Specialist at The Skokie School in the United States, presented various tools and platforms that can revitalize students’ reading experiences. He showcased the impact of audiobooks, AI-powered text-to-speech applications, and virtual reality, particularly in motivating reluctant readers. Burleson noted that only 14% of American students read daily by personal choice, which underlines the need for offering multi-format content—print, digital, and audio—aligned with students’ lifestyles and preferences.
He also introduced creative tools such as Book Creator, allowing students to author their own books, and AI-integrated educational platforms like Magic School, which foster new dimensions of immersive storytelling.
From the UAE, Yasser Abdul Muttalib, Arabic Language Coordinator and Library Supervisor at Al Majd Model School – Sharjah, shared his school’s “Read and Innovate” initiative, which encourages students to transform their readings into real-world models and interdisciplinary projects. The initiative has enhanced student engagement, boosted environmental and sustainability awareness, and prepared students to participate in international platforms such as the COP climate conference, as well as excel in regional competitions like the Arab Reading Challenge.
Jumana Hanoun, Librarian and Programme Coordinator at UNESCO, provided insights into turning school libraries into dynamic, inclusive learning spaces. She shared successful initiatives such as the Young Writers Team, student-led sustainability projects, and community partnerships. Emphasising reading as a tool for emotional support and personal growth, Hanoun discussed how libraries can serve as safe spaces for expression, creativity, and learning through interactive programmes like Young Entrepreneur Day and classroom mini-libraries crafted from natural materials.
In a session titled “Connecting and Partnering with Families”, Cherity Pennington, Director of Libraries and Media Services at Shawnee Public Schools, Oklahoma, addressed strategies for strengthening collaboration between school libraries and families. She provided practical frameworks from AASL’s national standards that encourage parent engagement in supporting student literacy development.
Meanwhile, Becky Calzada, President of the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), delivered a session titled “Coming Together Through Associations to Empower School Librarians”. She highlighted the role of professional associations in knowledge-sharing, skill-building, and advocating for the value of school libraries across diverse educational settings.
The conference also featured the Knowledge Café, an open forum for interactive dialogue among participants, covering topics such as engaging reluctant readers, librarian-teacher collaboration, and local reading initiatives.
The event concluded with a reflective session titled “Sharing and Next Steps”, where UAE-based school librarians shared insights on advancing school-based reading programmes. Certificates of participation were then distributed, with attendees affirming the importance of continuing such specialised platforms to promote the development and impact of school libraries across the Arab world.
