Ms Athraa Al Alawi, Director of the Arabian Gulf University (AGU) Library, participated in the annual Libraries Lead Forum 2025 recently organised by Qatar National Library (QNL) in collaboration with the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) Middle East and North Africa Regional Office. The forum highlighted the vital role of collaboration, innovation, and openness in shaping the future of libraries.

Under the theme " Libraries Thriving Together in an Open Ecosystem” the event attracted a diverse group of library experts, academics, and cultural institution leaders from across the region and the globe. Discussions centred the building of interconnected and sustainable library communities through international partnerships, advanced technologies, and open knowledge networks. The forum also featured specialised workshops enabling participants to explore strategies for strategic collaboration and innovation within an open ecosystem through practical sessions.

Al Alawi remarked that the forum provided a valuable platform for stakeholders to discuss the future of libraries, enhance the library and information landscape, and share inspiring experiences to advance the field. It addressed ongoing challenges related to developing integrated and collaborative knowledge systems across borders. She stressed the importance of global cooperation to build comprehensive library systems capable of meeting researchers' evolving needs as an urgent priority, especially in light of growing demands driven by innovation, digital transformation, and artificial intelligence.