Latest news with #CombinedBookExhibit
Al Etihad
17-04-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Sharjah School Librarians Conference calls for harnessing technology, community to boost reading
17 Apr 2025 10:43 SHARJAH (WAM) The inaugural Sharjah School Librarians Conference, organised by the Sharjah Book Authority, concluded Wednesday at Expo Centre Sharjah, following two days of insightful dialogue and collaboration between 170 education professionals, including international experts, school librarians, and in partnership with the American Library Association (ALA), the Emirates Library and Information Association (ELIA), the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), and the Combined Book Exhibit, the conference also showcased successful case studies and innovative strategies for engaging students, parents and the wider community. It further highlighted the role of modern technologies in encouraging reading and expanding its reach.A media specialist at The Skokie School in the United States, Todd Burleson, led a session titled 'Connecting reading and new technologies,' as part of the concluding examined how digital tools can transform the reading experience in school libraries, highlighting the potential of audiobooks, virtual reality, and AI-driven speech-to-text applications to enhance student engagement, particularly among reluctant Abdul Muttalib from Al Majd Model School in Sharjah and Jumana Hanoun, librarian and UNESCO programme coordinator, offered practical insights into how technology can foster engaging and dynamic reading environmentsThe session titled 'Connecting and partnering with families' highlighted the essential role of parents in fostering long-term reading habits among a session titled 'Coming together through associations to empower school librarians,' Becky Calzada, President of AASL, emphasised the value of collective action and knowledge exchange among underscored the role of professional associations as vital platforms for sharing resources, advancing skills, and strengthening the visibility and impact of school librarians across varied educational conference also hosted the 'Knowledge Café,' an informal forum encouraging attendees to engage with experts and included strategies for supporting reluctant readers, assessing student learning, building collaboration between librarians and teachers, integrating technology with reading, engaging families, and empowering local event concluded with a session titled 'Sharing and next steps,' featuring reflections from UAE-based school librarians on advancing reading initiatives in local schools. Certificates were then awarded to all participants, with attendees affirming the importance of continuing such professional gatherings to expand the role of school libraries across the Arab world.
Sharjah 24
16-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
170 leaders conclude Sharjah School Librarians Conference
Held in partnership with the American Library Association (ALA), the Emirates Library and Information Association (ELIA), the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), and the Combined Book Exhibit, the conference also showcased successful case studies and innovative strategies for engaging students, parents and the wider community. It further highlighted the role of modern technologies in encouraging reading and expanding its reach. Technology in service of reading As part of the concluding day, Todd Burleson, media specialist at The Skokie School in the United States, led a session titled 'Connecting reading and new technologies'. He examined how digital tools can transform the reading experience in school libraries, highlighting the potential of audiobooks, virtual reality, and AI-driven speech-to-text applications to enhance student engagement, particularly among reluctant readers. Burleson cited research showing that only 14 per cent of American students read daily by personal choice, underscoring the importance of offering content in varied formats — including print, digital and audio — that reflect students' interests. He identified audiobooks as an effective way to develop listening and comprehension skills, noting that approximately 35 per cent of students, especially teenagers, respond well to this format due to its adaptability to their fast-paced lifestyles. He also introduced tools such as Book Creator, which enables students to author their books, and AI-powered platforms like Magic School, which provide interactive and immersive storytelling experiences. Leading examples from Sharjah school libraries As part of the agenda, Yasser Abdul Muttalib from Al Majd Model School in Sharjah and Jumana Hanoun, librarian and UNESCO programme coordinator, offered practical insights into how technology can foster engaging and dynamic reading environments. Abdul Muttalib explained how school libraries can develop essential student skills such as problem-solving, adaptability and initiative by integrating child-friendly technologies into reading spaces. He highlighted the school's 'Read and Innovate' initiative, encouraging students to turn their reading into real-world models and projects. This approach has boosted student participation in the library and expanded their understanding of key topics such as sustainability and energy. It has also prepared them to take part in major platforms such as the Conference of the Parties (COP) and to succeed in high-profile academic competitions like the Arab Reading Challenge. For her part, Hanoun shared her vision of the school library as a hub for building a vibrant and inclusive school community. She discussed her initiatives, including the 'Young Writers Team', sustainability-themed projects, and collaborations with local stakeholders and international organisations, notably UNESCO. Parents were also actively engaged in these efforts. She highlighted the role of reading as a therapeutic tool, helping children overcome fears and build confidence by guiding them to relevant books. Her initiatives transformed the library into a multi-purpose space featuring educational games and creative activities such as 'Young Entrepreneur Day' and a 'Wall of Achievements'. She also introduced mini classroom libraries built with natural materials and worked to enhance partnerships with public libraries. Parents as partners in building reading habits The session titled 'Connecting and partnering with families' highlighted the essential role of parents in fostering long-term reading habits among students. Cherity Pennington, Director of Libraries and Media Services at Shawnee Public Schools in Oklahoma, USA, addressed school libraries' challenges in establishing meaningful and sustained relationships with families. She shared practical examples to encourage greater parental engagement in supporting their children's reading development. Empowering professionals through international associations In a session titled 'Coming together through associations to empower school librarians', Becky Calzada, President of AASL, emphasised the value of collective action and knowledge exchange among professionals. She underscored the role of professional associations as vital platforms for sharing resources, advancing skills, and strengthening the visibility and impact of school librarians across varied educational contexts. Knowledge Cafe: Networking and engagement space The conference also hosted the 'Knowledge Café', an informal forum encouraging attendees to engage with experts and peers. Topics included strategies for supporting reluctant readers, assessing student learning, building collaboration between librarians and teachers, integrating technology with reading, engaging families, and empowering local talents. The event concluded with a session titled 'Sharing and next steps', featuring reflections from UAE-based school librarians on advancing reading initiatives in local schools. Certificates were then awarded to all participants, with attendees affirming the importance of continuing such professional gatherings to expand the role of school libraries across the Arab world.
Zawya
16-04-2025
- General
- Zawya
170 education leaders conclude inaugural Sharjah School Librarians Conference
Sharjah: The inaugural Sharjah School Librarians Conference, organised by the Sharjah Book Authority, concluded today (Wednesday) at Expo Centre Sharjah, following two days of insightful dialogue and collaboration between 170 education professionals, including international experts, school librarians and teachers, who spotlighted the latest global trends in supporting school libraries and enhancing their role as a vital hub in the educational process. Held in partnership with the American Library Association (ALA), the Emirates Library and Information Association (ELIA), the American Association of School Librarians (AASL), and the Combined Book Exhibit, the conference also showcased successful case studies and innovative strategies for engaging students, parents and the wider community. It further highlighted the role of modern technologies in encouraging reading and expanding its reach. Technology in service of reading As part of the concluding day, Todd Burleson, media specialist at The Skokie School in the United States, led a session titled 'Connecting reading and new technologies'. He examined how digital tools can transform the reading experience in school libraries, highlighting the potential of audiobooks, virtual reality, and AI-driven speech-to-text applications to enhance student engagement, particularly among reluctant readers. Burleson cited research showing that only 14 per cent of American students read daily by personal choice, underscoring the importance of offering content in varied formats — including print, digital and audio — that reflect students' interests. He identified audiobooks as an effective way to develop listening and comprehension skills, noting that approximately 35 per cent of students, especially teenagers, respond well to this format due to its adaptability to their fast-paced lifestyles. He also introduced tools such as Book Creator, which enables students to author their books, and AI-powered platforms like Magic School, which provide interactive and immersive storytelling experiences. Leading examples from Sharjah school libraries As part of the agenda, Yasser Abdul Muttalib from Al Majd Model School in Sharjah and Jumana Hanoun, librarian and UNESCO programme coordinator, offered practical insights into how technology can foster engaging and dynamic reading environments. Abdul Muttalib explained how school libraries can develop essential student skills such as problem-solving, adaptability and initiative by integrating child-friendly technologies into reading spaces. He highlighted the school's 'Read and Innovate' initiative, encouraging students to turn their reading into real-world models and projects. This approach has boosted student participation in the library and expanded their understanding of key topics such as sustainability and energy. It has also prepared them to take part in major platforms such as the Conference of the Parties (COP) and to succeed in high-profile academic competitions like the Arab Reading Challenge. For her part, Hanoun shared her vision of the school library as a hub for building a vibrant and inclusive school community. She discussed her initiatives, including the 'Young Writers Team', sustainability-themed projects, and collaborations with local stakeholders and international organisations, notably UNESCO. Parents were also actively engaged in these efforts. She highlighted the role of reading as a therapeutic tool, helping children overcome fears and build confidence by guiding them to relevant books. Her initiatives transformed the library into a multi-purpose space featuring educational games and creative activities such as 'Young Entrepreneur Day' and a 'Wall of Achievements'. She also introduced mini classroom libraries built with natural materials and worked to enhance partnerships with public libraries. Parents as partners in building reading habits The session titled 'Connecting and partnering with families' highlighted the essential role of parents in fostering long-term reading habits among students. Cherity Pennington, Director of Libraries and Media Services at Shawnee Public Schools in Oklahoma, USA, addressed school libraries' challenges in establishing meaningful and sustained relationships with families. She shared practical examples to encourage greater parental engagement in supporting their children's reading development. Empowering professionals through international associations In a session titled 'Coming together through associations to empower school librarians', Becky Calzada, President of AASL, emphasised the value of collective action and knowledge exchange among professionals. She underscored the role of professional associations as vital platforms for sharing resources, advancing skills, and strengthening the visibility and impact of school librarians across varied educational contexts. Knowledge Cafe: Networking and engagement space The conference also hosted the 'Knowledge Café', an informal forum encouraging attendees to engage with experts and peers. Topics included strategies for supporting reluctant readers, assessing student learning, building collaboration between librarians and teachers, integrating technology with reading, engaging families, and empowering local talents. The event concluded with a session titled 'Sharing and next steps', featuring reflections from UAE-based school librarians on advancing reading initiatives in local schools. Certificates were then awarded to all participants, with attendees affirming the importance of continuing such professional gatherings to expand the role of school libraries across the Arab world.
Zawya
15-04-2025
- General
- Zawya
Sharjah commences inaugural ALA School Librarians Conference uniting global educators to inspire lifelong learning
Sharjah: The inaugural ALA School Librarians Conference in Sharjah commenced today (Tuesday) at Expo Centre Sharjah, highlighting the emirate's dedication to fostering a reading culture and enhancing school library systems across the region. Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) and the American Library Association (ALA), in collaboration with the Emirates Library and Information Association (ELIA), American Association of School Libraries (AASL) and the Combined Book Exhibit; the two-day event brings together a distinguished lineup of school librarians and education experts from around the world. The opening ceremony was attended by Mansour Al Hassani, General Coordinator of Professional Conferences at SBA; Michael Dowling, Director of Chapter Relations Office & International Relations Office at ALA; alongside educators, academic supervisors, and librarians from the UAE and beyond. Commenting on the inaugural event Hassani said, 'Schools serve as the foundation for building a cohesive knowledge-based society, with school libraries forming the cornerstone of young generations' relationship with reading and books. Under the guidance of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA, this conference is envisioned as a platform for exchanging specialised expertise and a practical opportunity to empower professionals in the school library sector. By providing access to global tools and experiences, the initiative aims to transform school libraries into interactive and inspiring environments.' International collaboration among school librarians The inaugural event commenced with a keynote address by Becky Calzada, President of the American Association of School Librarians and Library Services Coordinator at Leander Independent School District in Texas, USA. During her speech she said, 'Literacy and reading shape the minds and futures of individual readers, not just by providing access to books, but by inspiring a lifelong love of reading. Books serve as windows to the world, offering knowledge, inspiration, and endless possibilities that extend far beyond the classroom. To foster this effectively, we must collaborate, share our experiences, and learn from one another. At AASL we embrace the 'Backwards Design' philosophy, starting with the outcomes we want and working backward to create the best path forward. Developing strong reading habits requires consistency, curiosity, empathy, and a nurturing environment, qualities that empower students not only for academic and career success but for lifelong personal growth.' 'The challenges of literacy engagement are universal, whether in the UAE, the USA, or anywhere in between, which makes the exchange of ideas among librarians, educators, and literary experts vital at conferences such as these. Reading is fundamental to personal and academic achievement, and through school libraries, librarians serve as guides who help students discover not only information but also inspiration, confidence, and a sense of belonging that will support them throughout their lives,' she added. Cultivating a culture of reading for pleasure and read-aloud practices in schools In the conference's first session, Dr Margaret K. Merga, Associate Professor at the University of Notre Dame in Fremantle, Australia; Founder of Merga Consulting; and author; explored the positive impact of reading on students' literacy development and how school libraries can establish an inclusive reading culture. She began by saying, 'Think about what you love about reading and what it brings to your life; this is the key to inspiring a passion for reading in school children.' 'Reading for pleasure not only ignites engagement but also builds empathy, cognitive stamina, and provides an escape from daily pressures. Creating a culture of reading through whole-school literacy policies is essential, as it enhances engagement and ensures reading becomes a shared priority across the educational community. As librarians and educators, you are also social influencers with the power to instill a lifelong love of books. What you do matters deeply; research shows that students who recognise the value of reading beyond basic literacy are far more likely to develop daily reading habits,' Merga stated. She continued discussing her research saying, 'In 2024, we conducted a global survey within the school library workforce across 63 countries, gathering insights from 971 respondents. While the findings highlighted challenges such as deprofessionalization; with over two-thirds reporting that retired librarians were often replaced by less qualified staff; and the need to strengthen collaboration with classroom teachers, they also underscore the incredible role you play in the lives of your students, and I'm confident that school library communities can continue to inspire generations of readers and learners to come.'
