Busan: Qatar National Library (QNL) participated in the 90th IFLA World Library and Information Congress (WLIC) held in Busan, South Korea. QNL was represented by a high-level delegation of experts and specialists led by Ms. Tan Huism, Executive Director of Qatar National Library and Chair of the IFLA National Libraries Section. According to Qatar News Agency, the Library organized the "Arabic Caucus" under the theme "Voices from the Region: Shared Priorities and Prospects for Future Cooperation," as part of its participation. This was conducted in its capacity as the IFLA Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa. The opening session featured an address by the Qatar National Library delegation, followed by a speech from the Regional Committee for the Middle East and North Africa. The session also included a presentation of survey results about the current state of libraries in the region and an open discussion on prospects for future collaboration. The caucus announced a list of 52 members from the Arab region appointed to various positions and committees within the International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA) for the 2025-2027 term. This highlights the professional presence of Arabs and the diversity that enhances the region's contribution to the global library and information profession. During the Arab Librarians Forum in Busan, Qatar National Library honored the two winners of the QIMAM 2026 Award. The award recipients were Ruaya Al Kharusi from Oman and Ms. Nour El Ayoubi from Lebanon, recognized for their leadership capabilities and commitment to advancing library and information services. This initiative underscores Qatar National Library's commitment to nurturing young talent and investing in the library profession's future in the Arab region. The QIMAM Award is aimed at emerging library specialists aged 20 to 30 with no less than four years of experience, acknowledging their leadership and impact in the community. A judging panel of regional experts evaluated candidates based o n professional achievement and commitment to library development. Dr. Eiman Al Shammari, Acting Manager of National Collections at QNL and Manager of the IFLA MENA Regional Office, stated the initiative's regional impact: "At the Regional Office, our goal is to create a vibrant and interconnected network of professionals capable of driving positive change. By exposing exceptional talents in the library field to international best practices and providing them with the opportunity to connect with a broad network of peers in the field, we are preparing them so they can return to their countries and elevate the standard of library services and information provision across the region." The award winners, Ruaya Al Kharusi and Nour El Ayoubi, expressed their happiness at receiving the award and the opportunity to attend the IFLA Congress, interact with global professionals, and gain insights from international experiences.
