The Qatar National Library (QNL) recently hosted a two-day forum in collaboration with the Arab Organization for Administrative Development to discuss the digitization of traditional archives across Arab countries. The forum, titled ‘The Third Forum on Heritage Management: Digital Access and Artificial Intelligence Applications’, brought together local and regional experts, industry leaders, and academia to explore the various models of digital repositories for documentary heritage and efforts to enhance digital information management for improved usability and searchability of archives.
One of the key focuses of the conference was the role of digital technology in enhancing archive management and accessibility, as well as the importance of building a collaborative community to support the digitization of documentary heritage. Delegates gained insights into topics such as the implications of digital transformation for traditional archives in the future, and models of digital repositories with heritage resources in various libraries, cultural, and heritage organizations.
Tan Huism, Executive Director at Qatar National Library, highlighted the importance of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in enhancing accessibility and preservation of documentary heritage. He also mentioned the need for a better understanding of safe and effective digital practices in heritage management, particularly in the region. Dr. Nasser Al Hatlan Al Qahtani, Director General of the Arab Organization for Administrative Development, expressed gratitude to QNL for hosting the forum and noted the contribution of digitization to advancing research across the region.
Maryam Al Mutawa, Head of Collection Access at QNL Distinctive Collections, emphasized the increasing importance of digital technology in the sustainable management and accessibility of heritage resources. She mentioned the necessity for custodians of heritage and conservation specialists to embrace forward-looking approaches and methodologies that can widen access to knowledge for future generations. The forum aimed to educate the community about innovative ways to protect the region’s heritage and encourage cooperation in this area.
In conclusion, the forum on the digitization of traditional archives across Arab countries organized by Qatar National Library provided a platform for knowledge exchange and networking among experts in the field of heritage and rare resources. Discussions centered around the pivotal role of digital technology in enhancing archive management and accessibility, as well as the importance of building a collaborative community to support the digitization of documentary heritage. The event highlighted the impact of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies on the preservation and accessibility of heritage resources, while also emphasizing the need for a better understanding of safe and effective digital practices in heritage management.
