Preconference Workshops
(Separate registration-lunch included. Please register for only one)
8:30–9:30 AM
60 Minutes 9:30 AM–13:00 PM 4 Hours Librarians as Teachers: An ACRL Immersion Workshop
This interactive workshop aims to help participants explore their roles as educators by offering the space to reflect on core aspects of information literacy, teacher identities, and strategies for professional well-being. During this workshop, participants will engage in discussion around the multifaceted role of librarians as educators and identify some of the knowledge and tools needed to advocate for information literacy, reflect on their teaching practices, sustain themselves professionally, and engage with the larger Immersion community.
- Articulate the importance of information literacy in order to tell the story of the role of librarians as teachers
- Reflect on their identity as a teacher in order to understand teaching perspectives and inform instructional practices
- Discuss strategies and boundaries needed to sustain ourselves and to nurture and maintain professional communities
- Describe learning opportunities with ACRL Immersion in order to continue to engage with the Immersion community
Associate Dean for Learning and Engagement, Penn State University Libraries
Professor and Science Librarian, University of Nevada-Las Vegas
9:00 AM–13:00 PM 4 Hours Beyond the Buzz: Practical AI for Public, Academic, and School Libraries:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s here, and it’s transforming how libraries serve their communities. But with so much hype, where do you begin? This hands-on, interactive workshop cuts through the noise to offer practical, approachable strategies for integrating AI into everyday library work across public, academic, and school settings.
Designed for librarians who are new to AI or curious about its potential, this session begins with a brief, engaging overview of AI’s evolution in educational technology. Participants will explore the basics of AI, demystifying key concepts and understanding how AI can enhance library services, from reference and research support to instruction and workflow efficiency.
Attendees will gain a structured approach to evaluating and implementing AI tools. The session features guided practice with tools like Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and specialized platforms such as Research Rabbit, Litmaps, JSTOR’s Interactive AI Research Tool, and more. Participants will also explore how AI can support inclusive practices through Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and tools like Goblin.
The workshop concludes with a discussion on evaluating AI tools, addressing academic integrity concerns, and identifying ways to participate in broader institutional or community AI initiatives. Whether you work in a school media center, a public library, or an academic institution, you’ll leave with actionable ideas and the confidence to begin your AI journey.
- Understand the evolution and foundational concepts of AI in educational and library contexts.
- Identify practical applications of AI tools for reference, instruction, and workflow support.
- Gain hands-on experience with essential AI tools tailored for library environments.
- Explore strategies for inclusive service design using AI and UDL principles.
- Evaluate AI tools critically and address ethical considerations, including academic integrity.
- Participants will leave equipped with practical, inclusive, and ethically grounded strategies to confidently integrate AI into their library services—no matter the setting.
MLS, MAT, Teaching & Learning Librarian at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, North Carolina
9:30AM - 15:30PM 6.5 Hours Using AI to Improve Technical Services: The Role of RDA
This workshop is intended for librarians and library staff responsible for cataloging
This workshop explores the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in library cataloging, particularly within the framework of Resource Description and Access (RDA). As libraries face increasing volumes and types of digital resources, AI offers both opportunities and challenges for enhancing metadata creation and improving access to information. The RDA Arabic version will be available in 2026.
AI can streamline repetitive tasks, improve metadata accuracy, and help libraries with limited resources. However, it must be implemented responsibly, in line with ethical principles and professional values, such as those outlined by IFLA, ARL, PCC, and the ALA Code of Ethics.
AI is also likely to reveal new types of resources or data interactions not previously anticipated by the current RDA structure. The Workshop would explore more about different types of materials and how the RDA standard should be updated accordingly based on real-world findings from AI systems in practice.
Overall, the workshop calls for collaborative, ethical, and technically sound implementation strategies for AI in cataloging, balancing innovation with the foundational values of the library profession.
Also, the workshop will present some experiments from different European libraries on how to us Al in some of the tasks in the cataloguing process.
Who Should Attend?
This Workshop is intended for catalogers mainly and all technical services staff.
The workshop would be interested for those who are interested in using AI to facilitate their work and to know more about the effect of AI on the growth of RDA.
Attendees should already be familiar with the basic concepts and application of RDA and have some knowledge of AI applications.
Learning Outcomes
The attendees of this workshop will be able to identify the link between the RDA standard and AI applications and how they can benefit from AI in their daily tasks in the technical services.
Head of Information Institutions and Professional Skills Department, Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Egypt Chair of the RDA Arabic Translation Team
Africa representative to the RDA Board
Active member in the AFLI Standards Committee
Senior Cataloging & Metadata Librarian at University of Sharjah, UAE.
He has experience over 20 years in cataloging and archiving. He is a member of IFLA-BCM review group
Sharjah International Library Conference
(program will be updated additional sessions in July) 8:30–9:30 AM 60 Minutes 9:30–10:15 AM 45 Minutes 
ALA President-elect, Director of Libraries, Cambridge Public Library, Massachusetts
10:15-10:45 AM 30 Minutes 
Break and Visit Exhibits 10:45-11:25 AM 55 Minutes Library 2035: Opportunities, Challenges, and the Path Ahead
Main Stage
What will libraries look like in 2035? And, how can we prepare now? Inspired by Library 2035: Imagining the Next Generation of Libraries, this session explores emerging trends from AI ethics to climate resilience and the bold ideas reshaping the profession. We’ll examine future scenarios, essential skills, and the evolving role of libraries as hubs of equity, innovation, and global connection. Attendees will gain insights into how libraries can lead transformative change and remain vital in a rapidly shifting world.
Associate Dean for Academics in the College of Information, Data & Society, San José State University, California
11:30 AM–12:20 PM 50 Minutes I. Beyond Data Literacy: Creating Inclusive and Collaborative Data Communities
Main Stage
Academic libraries are evolving beyond traditional data literacy instruction to foster dynamic and inclusive data communities. This presentation highlights how libraries encourage experimentation, collaboration, and innovation, supporting scholars at all levels through meaningful partnerships and engagement. Drawing from case studies and real-world strategies, it will explore how a thriving data culture strengthens scholarly networks, drives research, and transforms services to meet the changing needs of academic institutions. By embracing curiosity, risk-taking, and collaboration, libraries can reshape the narrative around data literacy and position themselves as key players in building sustainable scholarly communities.
Coordinator of the Digital Scholarship Hub and Liaison Librarian at McGill
II. Sharjah Public Library: Digital Transformation
Room 2II. Transforming School Libraries into Dynamic Learning Spaces: Reading, Sustainability, and Identity
Room 3
School libraries are transforming into a vibrant hub for reading, sustainability, and cultural identity. Learn from the presenter various programs and initiatives that have succeeded in achieving the goal- the library as a center of activity and visibility within the school. From reading cafés to reading tents to workshops and projects promoting cultural heritage and sustainability.
Librarian, International Community Schools – Khalifa Branch, Khalifa City – Abu Dhabi, UAE
12:25–13:00 PM 55 Minutes I. National Library and Archives United Arab Emirates: Emerging Technologies and Innovations
Main Stage
Director of Research and Knowledge, Services Department, National Library and Archives United Arab Emirates
12:45–13:00 PM 15 Minutes Your Digital Library – Ebooks and Audiobooks for All
Main Stage
MEA Country Manager, Global Libraries and Education, Overdrive
13:00–13:50 PM 50 Minutes Lunch and Library Exhibits 13:50 – 14:40 PM 50 Minutes I. From Dream to Achievement: How Advocacy Transformed the Learning Space at the Faculty of Sciences Library in Sfax
Main Stage
How do you successfully advocate to get support to transform your library? Join this informative session to hear how The Faculty of Sciences Library at Sfax in Tunisia created an effective advocacy effort to reach and convince their administration. The advocacy was highly effective, enabling broader community engagement and unlocking real institution and financial support. Through organized communication and collaborative efforts, the library successfully transformed an inactive space into a modern, inspiring location that fosters focus and creativity for both students and faculty.
Library Director, Faculté des Sciences de Sfax, Tunisia
II. Innovate, Inspire, Imagine: Transforming the Primary Library Experience
Room 2
Looking for fresh ideas to transform your library or reading space? Discover innovative ways to make the primary library a vibrant hub of curiosity, creativity, and community. Explore practical strategies to inspire young readers, promote wellbeing, and position the library as the heart of the school. Louise MacLeod was recognized as the UAE Most Innovative Librarian in 2025.
Primary Librarian, GEMS International School, Al Khail, Dubai, UAE
14:45–15:30 PM
45 Minutes Visual presentations of best practices
15:35-16:25 PM 50 Minutes I. Starting a GenAI Community of Practice: A collaborative, low-barrier way to learn, experiment, and lead
Main Stage
A community of practice (CoP) is a group of people who share a concern or a passion for something they do and learn how to do it better as they interact regularly. Hear how George Mason University Libraries has created a successful ‘AI Community of Practice’ beginning in 2024 that is going strong today. The ‘AI Community of Practice’ has provided a great knowledge sharing environment to understand and explore various AI tools and platforms and the best ways to integrate into library practices and engagement with students and faculty.
Teaching & Outreach Librarian, George Mason University, Virginia, USA
II. Risk Management and Information Security in Libraries and Information Institutions.
Room 2
Libraries face threats such as natural disasters, security breaches, and information- related crimes. Effective risk management enhances knowledge security, safeguards data, and ensures a safe and reliable educational environment. This session provides advice on preventive tools to ensure information security and network protection, based on advanced technological and informational infrastructures. Effective implementation of risk management requires a strong infrastructure, response plans, and integration with artificial intelligence technologies, and the need for policy updates and ongoing staff training.
Director Of Medical Library, Sultan Qaboos university, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
8:30–9:00 AM 30 Minutes 9:00–9:50 AM 50 Minutes I. Creating a Good Customer Relations Culture in Your Library
Main Stage
Libraries like businesses need to be intentional in creating a good customer service culture. This includes understanding customers and their desires, which results from the organizations' capabilities to build customer loyalty. Developing these relationships is an essential part of library management, as it focuses on understanding patrons' needs and meeting their expectations to ensure satisfaction and foster loyalty. This presentation addresses elements related to the concept, importance, challenges, and methods of developing customer relations in libraries, then provides an example of a framework plan or strategy for developing customer relations. Though the examples are for a university library, this presentation is beneficial for all types of libraries.Director of the General Administration of Libraries at King Abdulaziz University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
II. Using AI to Improve Technical Services
Room 2
Director of the Information Institutions and Professional Skills Department, Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Egypt
III. Reading for Pleasure: Fostering a Lifelong Love for Reading in Children
Room 3
Projects Manager & Library Advisor at Emirates Literature Foundation, Dubai, UAE
10:00-10:50 AM 50 Minutes I. The High-Impact Digital Library: Innovative Approaches for Outreach and Instruction
Main Stage
Digital library terminology like “accessible,” “discoverable,” and “searchable” usually presumes passive collections waiting to be found by motivated information seekers. Rarely do we envision collection managers initiating outreach with those most likely to benefit from the collections. This presentation explores the many ways that digital library library practitioners at various types of cultural institutions proactively promote their unique resources.
Digital Matters Director at the University of Utah
II. Balancing Minds and Machines: Libraries at the Crossroads of Artificial and Emotional Intelligence
Room 2
In an era shaped by artificial intelligence, the value of emotional intelligence has never been more essential, especially in academic settings where critical thinking, empathy, and ethical reflection must coexist with technological fluency. This presentation explores how libraries can serve as a bridge between these two forms of intelligence by engaging students through literature, reflective spaces, and SDG-aligned programming. It will also explore how libraries can lead cross-disciplinary awareness efforts, empowering students not only to use AI tools wisely but also to remain grounded in human values, empathy, and social responsibility.
Digital Content Specialist, Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST) Library Department, Mubarak Al-Abdullah, Kuwait
III. Leveraging AI in School Libraries: From Basics to Best Practices
Room 3
The sudden appearance of AI in educational settings is exciting and transformative—and also disorienting. But this shift presents new opportunities to enhance school library services, support teaching and learning, and streamline school librarians’ own professional workflows. Seales offers practical strategies, insights, and tools for school librarians to thoughtfully, inclusively, and confidently integrate AI into their daily instructional and working practices.Teaching & Learning Librarian at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, North Carolina
10:55-11:25 AM 30 Minutes Break and Exhibits 11:30 AM-12:30 PM 60 Minutes An opportunity for one on one and group discussions with experts and colleagues to ask, answer, discuss different issues and challenges going on in libraries. Come away with knowledge, ideas, and strategies to move yourself and your library forward.
12:30-13:30 PM 60 Minutes 
Lunch and Library Exhibits 13:30-14:20 PM 50 Minutes I. Foundations of Lesson Planning: Learning Outcomes and Assessment
(Main Stage)
In this session, participants will define student-centered learning outcomes for information literacy instruction and explore the benefits (and limitations) of creating learning outcomes in order to plan learner-centered lesson plans for library instruction. We will identify activities that will engage students and help meet learning outcomes and discuss authentic assessment techniques to identify what students have learned so far. We will also address the affordances of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in lesson planning.
Associate Dean for Learning and Engagement, Penn State University Libraries
Professor and Science Librarian, University of Nevada-Las Vegas
II. Malaysian Public Libraries: Outreach and Engagement to Underserved Communities for Connection and Opportunity
Room 2
Hear from leaders of two Malaysian public library systems on their efforts to connect the library to underserved populations in their communities. Serving immigrants and refugees is part of the mission of the Kedah Public Library as a place of culture and social community where opportunities can arise. The Perlis State Public Library’s Mobile Makerspace Robotics program is an innovative initiative designed to reach children outside the library to spark interest in innovation, foster creativity, boost self-confidence, and encourage a lifelong passion for science and technology.
Director, Kedah Public Library Corporation, Kedah, Malaysia
Director, Perlis State Public Library, Malaysia
III. Creating an Impactful Digital Library in School Libraries : A Case Study at Taryam American Private School
Room 3
This session will describe how the library in one year created a successful well-used digital library for its students, presenting the steps to its creation, implementation and importance. The presenter will discuss how she promoted the digital library and created workshops to teach the students how to use it for reading and resources while in school or at home. Get ideas on how to create or expand the digital library in your school.
Librarian, Taryam American Private School – Sharjah, UAE
14:30-15:10 PM 40 Minutes Visual presentations of best practices
15:15-16:05 PM 50 Minutes I. New Resources for Librarians in Arabic from ELIA
Main Stage
The Emirates Library and Information Association has translated five of ALA’s most topical books into Arabic to make them available to more librarians in the MENA region. The books cover responding to rapid change, sustainable thinking, the rise of AI, libraries building business and being a place of play and creativity. Hear from three of the translators about their books, including summaries and important takeaways.
Director of Library Services, American University Dubai, UAE
Librarian, Amity University Dubai, Dubai, UAE
Professor & Head of Library and Information Department, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
16:05-16:30 PM 25 Minutes