Doha: Qatar National Library (QNL) hosted the IFLA MENA Regional Division Committee Meeting with the participation of 18 experts from across the region. The meeting aimed to strengthen the role of libraries in preserving cultural heritage, empowering communities, and embracing digital transformation in the Arab world. It also underscores IFLA's growing focus on localized collaboration and regional engagement to address global challenges, leveraging regionally driven solutions.

According to Qatar News Agency, the committee brought together representatives from 18 countries for strategic discussions about setting future regional priorities, fostering cross-border collaboration, and advancing key initiatives such as QNL and IFLA's Libraries Lead Forum and the development of sustainable projects.

QNL was represented at the committee by Director of National Collection and Special Initiatives, Abeer Al Kuwari, who serves as a mentor within the committee, and Manager of the IFLA MENA Regional Office, Eiman Alshamari, who serves as an observer. "The IFLA meeting underscores our shared vision to position libraries as cultural hubs that empower our communities today and preserve our heritage for future generations," said Al Kuwari. "The latest meeting reflects QNL's commitment to supporting IFLA in its mission to bolster the capacity of libraries across the Arab world and to foster regional collaboration," she added.

It is worth noting that the meeting, held at QNL, which was chosen in August 2023 as the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) MENA Regional Office, is the second in-person meeting since its establishment, following an inaugural session in November 2023.