On Monday, the opening day of the Sharjah Libraries' Literature Award Forum, Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), honoured the winners of the 24th edition of the prestigious award organised by Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL), which received over 41 research submissions from 14 countries.

The day also included the signing of an MoU between SPL and the American University of Sharjah (AUS) Library to enhance information access and expand shared resources. The agreement was signed by Eman Bushalibi, Director of SPL, and Kara Jones, AUS Librarian, in a ceremony attended by UAE cultural and academic leaders.

In her remarks, Eman Bushalibi highlighted Sharjah’s libraries’ century-long legacy of fostering creative achievements. Supported by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, and Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, these libraries remain vital pillars of knowledge and innovation.

Bushalibi said, “The 24th Sharjah Libraries’ Literature Award saw a 37 percent increase in research submissions, a 75 percent rise in participating countries, and a 49 percent growth in researchers. Joint research papers surged by 120 percent, reflecting the prize's impact in advancing scientific research.”

Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri presented the “Best Research” awards. First place went to Dr Ibrahim Abd Elhady and Dr Maha Loay Hatem from Alexandria University for their research on promoting green sustainability in public libraries. Second place was awarded to Dr Ibrahim Mohammed Karthiyo from Algeria, while third place went to Dr Ehdaa Salah Naji from Cairo University.

In the ‘Best Library and Information Institution’ category, the Mohammed bin Rashid Library in the UAE was recognised, and the ‘Best Project in the Field’ award went to the Omani Research Repository (Shoaa) from Sultan Qaboos University.

The MoU between SPL and AUS Library aims to expand access to resources, promote lifelong learning, and drive innovation. Key initiatives include interlibrary resource sharing and joint professional development, focusing on enhancing digital literacy and ensuring equitable access to information.

Three panel discussions were held on the inaugural day. The first, titled "Public Libraries: A Meeting Place for Cultures and Diversity", included Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Jarwan, Dr Mohammed Abdullah Al Ali, and Jumaa Al Dhaheri. They discussed the role of libraries as custodians of national and city memory, with Sharjah highlighted as a model of public library development.

The second discussion, "Information Institutions: From Traditional Roles to Shaping Awareness and Enhancing Identity", featured Ali Al Matrooshi and Jamal Al Shehhi, who stressed the role of knowledge in fostering cultural dialogue. They praised Sharjah as a model of cultural exchange and emphasised the importance of translating global literature into Arabic.

The final panel, "Libraries and the Challenges of Cultural and Knowledge Work", featured Dr Nabhan Al Harrasi and Professor Moatasem El Gheriani. They discussed how modern libraries, including SPL, are adapting to technological advancements while retaining their traditional roles. They also highlighted the importance of intellectual property legislation in promoting creativity and innovation.

The day concluded with presentations by the first-place winners, showcasing the award’s role in advancing library practices. The winners discussed the importance of their research and the standards they applied in addressing modern challenges.