Latest news with #QatarNationalLibrary
Qatar Tribune
13-07-2025
- General
- Qatar Tribune
QNL honours emerging library leaders with QIMAM Award
Tribune News Network Doha Qatar National Library (QNL), home of the IFLA Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Regional Office, has honoured two emerging library professionals as the first recipients of the Qatar-IFLA MENA Award for Aspiring Minds (QIMAM Award). Raghad Ghanem Alqahtani from Saudi Arabia and Salma Mohamed Ayoub from Egypt were recognised for their leadership potential and community impact. The award provides librarians with the opportunity to attend the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions World Library and Information Congress (WLIC) in Kazakhstan from August 18 to 22, 2025. Launched to foster the development of future industry leaders, the QIMAM Award attracted strong interest, with 40 applicants from across the MENA region. Following a rigorous selection process, eight candidates advanced to interviews held on June 21 and 22. The finalists represented Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan and Lebanon. A distinguished panel of experts evaluated the candidates based on their contributions to the profession and their commitment to advancing libraries. The panel included Professor Hassan Awad AlSereihi, president of the Special Libraries Association, Arabian Gulf Chapter; Dr Heba Ismail, vice president of the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information; Anfel Toafek from Algeria, a member of the IFLA MENA Regional Division Committee; Mohammed Saif, director of communication at QNL; and Maxim Nasra, head of the Preservation and Conservation Center at QNL. Professor AlSereihi praised the QIMAM Award as a 'brilliant initiative,' which was led by Eiman Al-Shammari of the IFLA Regional Office and Qatar National Library. 'I was pleased to participate in evaluating the applicants who met the criteria. Listening to their stories, ambitions and career paths was both enlightening and encouraging,' he said. 'I was deeply impressed by their knowledge, dedication and aspirations for the future. I only wish there had been four or more awards available to recognize the many distinguished candidates. The final selections were based on a fair evaluation process that reflected the collective judgment of the committee. I congratulate the two winners and encourage the rest to continue pursuing their goals. They, too, were exceptional.' Dr Ismail said she was honored to serve on the evaluation committee. 'The experience was truly inspiring, offering me the opportunity to witness the passion and professionalism of the emerging generation of librarians in our region. The applicants' diverse backgrounds and experiences reflect the dynamic growth of the sector. This initiative not only provides valuable professional opportunities, but also helps foster a cohesive regional community that champions innovation and development. I extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to Qatar National Library and the IFLA Regional Office for their commitment to empowering young professionals. I am proud to support their efforts and their ambitious vision.' Abeer S Al Kuwari, director of National Collections and Special Initiatives at QNL, noted that the Library was proud to honour two outstanding individuals with the QIMAM Award. 'This initiative aligns perfectly with QNL's mission to foster professional growth and regional collaboration. We are excited to see the lasting impact these emerging professionals will have on the community.' Commenting further on the importance of the initiative, Alshamari, acting manager of the National Collection at Qatar National Library and the manager of the IFLA Middle East and North Africa Regional Office, said the award reflects the Library's strong belief in the power of youth to shape the future of the profession in the MENA region. The awardees will gain access to global best practices and an international network of professionals, advancing their personal development and further strengthening libraries in the region.
Qatar Tribune
30-06-2025
- Politics
- Qatar Tribune
QNL leads regional efforts to combat illicit trafficking of cultural property
Tribune News Network Doha As part of its ongoing commitment to preserving heritage, Qatar National Library (QNL), the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)'s Regional Preservation and Conservation Centre for the Arab region, continues to champion efforts to prevent the illicit trade of cultural property across the region. In collaboration with the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), Qatar's General Authority of Customs, and Morocco's Administration of Customs and Indirect Taxes, Qatar National Library (QNL) is co-organizing the International Conference and High-Level Regional Workshop on the Role of Customs Authorities in Combating the Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Property. The event, which began on 30 June and will continue until 5 July, is being held at ICESCO Headquarters in Rabat, Morocco. The initiative consists of an international conference on the opening day, followed by a comprehensive five-day regional workshop that brings together customs officials, cultural heritage professionals, and law enforcement representatives from across the region, focusing on enhancing customs officers' capacity to identify and safeguard cultural property, apply international legal frameworks, and collaborate effectively with cultural and enforcement institutions. The opening ceremony featured remarks from distinguished officials including Minister of Justice, Kingdom of Morocco, Abdellatif Ouahbi; Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication, Kingdom of Morocco, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid; Executive Director of Qatar National Library, Tan Huism; Director-General of ICESCO, Dr. Salem bin Mohammed Al-Malik; Assistant Chairman for Customs Affairs at Qatar's General Authority of Customs Talal Abdullah Al Shaibi and senior officials Morocco's Administration of Customs and Indirect Taxes. Tan Huism discussed the gravity of the increased threats to cultural heritage, and the importance of customs authorities in combating illicit trafficking, but also the role of the media and society. She discussed the efforts that Qatar National Library has made in this area, and the importance of working in partnership. She continued: 'Cultural items are expressions of who we are as a society. They hold our collective memory, reflect our identity, and offer insight into our values and beliefs. By working hand in hand with regional and international partners, we remain committed to preventing the trafficking of cultural property and ensuring they are preserved for future generations,' she said. Talal Al Shaibi emphasized the importance of collaboration with organizations like QNL and ICESCO in strengthening the ability of customs authorities to protect cultural heritage across borders. 'Customs authorities are often the first line of defence against the illegal movement of cultural assets. Thus, they play a crucial and leading role in combatting the illicit trade,' he said. Dr. Al Malik noted that the workshop represents a key milestone in building bridges between cultural institutions and customs authorities throughout the Islamic world, reinforcing ICESCO's mission to advance cultural heritage protection. The event marked a significant step forward in strengthening regional cooperation to combat crimes against cultural property and further solidified QNL's leadership in heritage preservation. QNL's efforts are aligned with Qatar's broader vision to safeguard cultural identity. As IFLA's Regional Preservation and Conservation Centre for the region, QNL plays a pivotal role in fostering regional collaboration, providing training and support for the protection of heritage.
Zawya
30-06-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
Qatar National Library leads regional efforts to combat illicit trafficking of cultural property
A Rabat conference and workshop with ICESCO, Qatar's General Authority of Customs and Morocco's Administration of Customs & Indirect Taxes focus on protecting cultural property. Doha, Qatar: As part of its ongoing commitment to preserving heritage, Qatar National Library (QNL), the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)'s Regional Preservation and Conservation Centre for the Arab region, continues to champion efforts to prevent the illicit trade of cultural property across the region. In collaboration with the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), Qatar's General Authority of Customs, and Morocco's Administration of Customs and Indirect Taxes, Qatar National Library (QNL) is co-organizing the International Conference and High-Level Regional Workshop on the Role of Customs Authorities in Combating the Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Property. The event, which began on 30 June and will continue until 5 July, is being held at ICESCO Headquarters in Rabat, Morocco. The initiative consists of an international conference on the opening day, followed by a comprehensive five-day regional workshop that brings together customs officials, cultural heritage professionals, and law enforcement representatives from across the region, focusing on enhancing customs officers' capacity to identify and safeguard cultural property, apply international legal frameworks, and collaborate effectively with cultural and enforcement institutions. The opening ceremony featured remarks from distinguished officials including His Excellency Mr. Abdellatif Ouahbi, Minister of Justice, Kingdom of Morocco; His Excellency Mr. Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication, Kingdom of Morocco; Ms. Tan Huism, Executive Director of Qatar National Library; and His Excellency Dr. Salem bin Mohammed Al-Malik, Director-General of ICESCO, Mr. Talal Abdullah Al Shaibi, Assistant Chairman for Customs Affairs at Qatar's General Authority of Customs, along with senior officials Morocco's Administration of Customs and Indirect Taxes. Ms. Tan discussed the gravity of the increased threats to cultural heritage, and the importance of customs authorities in combating illicit trafficking, but also the role of the media and society. She discussed the efforts that Qatar National Library has made in this area, and the importance of working in partnership. She continued: "Cultural items are expressions of who we are as a society. They hold our collective memory, reflect our identity, and offer insight into our values and beliefs. By working hand in hand with regional and international partners, we remain committed to preventing the trafficking of cultural property and ensuring they are preserved for future generations," she said. Mr. Talal Al Shaibi, Assistant Chairman for Customs Affairs at Qatar's General Authority of Customs, emphasized the importance of collaboration with organizations like QNL and ICESCO in strengthening the ability of customs authorities to protect cultural heritage across borders. "Customs authorities are often the first line of defence against the illegal movement of cultural assets. Thus, they play a crucial and leading role in combatting the illicit trade," he said. Dr. Al Malik noted that the workshop represents a key milestone in building bridges between cultural institutions and customs authorities throughout the Islamic world, reinforcing ICESCO's mission to advance cultural heritage protection. The event marked a significant step forward in strengthening regional cooperation to combat crimes against cultural property and further solidified QNL's leadership in heritage preservation. QNL's efforts are aligned with Qatar's broader vision to safeguard cultural identity. As IFLA's Regional Preservation and Conservation Centre for the region, QNL plays a pivotal role in fostering regional collaboration, providing training and support for the protection of heritage. About Qatar National Library Qatar National Library acts as a steward of Qatar's national heritage by collecting, preserving, and making available the country's recorded history. The Library provides equal access to all types of information and services and aims to enable the people of Qatar to positively influence society by creating an exceptional learning and discovery environment. His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar, officially inaugurated Qatar National Library on 16 April 2018. The Library was granted the status of national library under the Amiri Decree No.11 of 20 March 2018.
Qatar Tribune
21-06-2025
- General
- Qatar Tribune
Things you should know about QNL's Murshidi programme
Tribune News Network Doha If you're a student in Qatar looking for personalised guidance on your academic or professional journey, Qatar National Library's Murshidi programme offers a valuable opportunity for personal growth. Designed for high school students, early university students, and recent graduates, Murshidi offers mentorship from some of the most respected experts and educators across Qatar's leading institutions. Murshidi Is Your Bridge to a Brighter Future Murshidi connects students with mentors who can guide them through major academic and career transitions. From choosing the right university to finding your path in the workforce, this programme helps you take the next step forward to achieve your goals. Learn from the Best in Qatar With more than 90 mentors from institutions such as Qatar Foundation, HBKU, Sidra Medicine, QCRI and more, Murshidi offers access to a diverse network of professionals across fields like medicine, technology, law, innovation, policy and education. One-on-One Guidance Tailored for You Mentees can choose their areas of focus and select 3 or 4 potential mentors. Based on availability and subject needs, each student is matched with a mentor for focused one-on-one sessions that address their individual goals and aspirations. Weekly Sessions at the Heart of Knowledge Mentorship meetings are held on Saturday from 10am to 1pm at Qatar National Library's main plaza, offering a consistent, welcoming environment that supports learning, networking and personal growth. Respectful and Professional Engagement Is Key Murshidi ensures structure and professionalism. All communications are managed by QNL staff and mentees are expected to attend sessions on time and maintain respectful engagement throughout the programme. Join today! Whether you're preparing for university, seeking career advice or looking to connect with leaders in your field, Murshidi is here to support your journey. To register and begin your mentorship experience, fill out the form available on Qatar National Library's website. Take the first step toward your future today.
Qatar Tribune
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Qatar Tribune
QNL launches Arabic calligraphy contest to celebrate heritage
Tribune News Network Doha Qatar National Library (QNL) is celebrating the timeless beauty of Arabic calligraphy with the launch of its Arabic Calligraphy Contest, inviting community members to share artworks inspired by its heritage collection. Drawing inspiration from the calligraphic panels and manuscripts preserved in QNL's Heritage Library, this contest offers a unique opportunity for participants to engage with Arab and Islamic heritage through the art of calligraphy. Themed around Arabic verses and texts, the contest encourages creativity rooted in tradition. Participants are required to incorporate one of five texts into their artwork, using a traditional Arabic calligraphic script such as Naskh, Thuluth or Diwani, among others. Entries may be submitted as either digital artworks or hand-drawn pieces (scanned in high resolution) in A4 or A3 format. AI-generated artworks will not be accepted. The contest is open to all nationals and residents aged 16 and above with a valid Qatar National Library membership. Submissions must be uploaded via the official submission form no later than 20 July 2025 at 11:59 PM. Public voting will take place on Qatar National Library's Instagram Stories from 27 July to 7 August 2025, with the final winner announced on 13 August 2025, in celebration of World Calligraphy Day. The winner will receive an iPad Pro to support their artistic journey. Participants can find inspiration in selected items from the Heritage Library's collection, including rare and beautifully executed examples of Arabic calligraphy. Full contest details, guidelines and the submission portal are available on the Library's website.
