Experts at SIBF: Knowledge Is Not a Luxury but the Foundation of Societal Progress

Library and information experts emphasized that knowledge is not a privilege but a cornerstone for building human awareness and advancing societies. They stressed that fostering a culture of knowledge and ensuring public access to it are essential for informed decision-making and sustainable development.

The remarks came during a panel titled “Knowledge is Power: Towards an Integrated Information Society,” organized by the Emirates Library and Information Association as part of the opening day of the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2025), held under the theme “Between You and a Book.”

Dr. Fatima Al Maamari, Acting Director of Cultural Heritage at the Ministry of Culture, highlighted the ministry’s efforts to expand access to knowledge through public and children’s libraries, creative centers, and the National Reading Month initiatives.

Fahad Ali Al Maamari, Chairman of the Emirates Library and Information Association, underscored the librarian’s evolving role as a knowledge ambassador, not merely a technical custodian, calling for continued investment in training and documentation skills.

SIBF 2025 hosts 2,350 publishers from 118 countries and over 250 speakers presenting more than 1,200 cultural and artistic events.