Culture and Art
Sharjah International Library Forum discusses enhancing library services with artificial intelligence technology
Ahmed Al-Amri: The fate of nations and civilizations is linked to libraries, which embody the meeting place of minds and ideas and give us the opportunity to understand the past
Ahmed Al-Amri: The fate of nations and civilizations is linked to libraries, which embody the meeting place of minds and ideas and give us the opportunity to understand the past and create the future
Liu Lu: The invention of artificial intelligence technology is as important as the discovery of fire, the invention of electricity, and the internet
The 11th Sharjah International Library Conference, organized by the Sharjah Book Authority in cooperation with the American Library Association, kicked off today (Saturday), coinciding with the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair. Over two days, the conference brings together a select group of librarians, experts, and specialists in the library sector from around the world, under the theme “Integrating Artificial Intelligence into Library Services and Promoting AI Literacy,” to discuss the central role that libraries play in promoting creative industries and the knowledge economy.
The conference, held at the Sharjah Expo Centre, hosted more than 400 experts and librarians from academic, public, school, governmental and private libraries, from more than 30 countries, along with more than 100 Emirati librarians, making it the largest number of participants in the history of the conference.
Libraries are a meeting place for minds and ideas
In his speech during the opening ceremony of the conference, His Excellency Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority, welcomed the guests to the Emirate of Sharjah, and said: “Under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, Sharjah believes that the destiny of nations and civilizations is linked to libraries, which embody the meeting place of minds and ideas, and give us the opportunity to understand the past and create the future. Sharjah was and still is the only place outside the United States to host this event, for the eleventh year in a row, in cooperation with the American Library Association.”.
Al-Amiri added: “In light of rapid technological development, this year’s conference highlights the role of artificial intelligence in developing library services and enhancing their interaction with the public, within a comprehensive program that focuses on innovation in the world of libraries, and mechanisms for integrating artificial intelligence in knowledge resource management, so that libraries remain up-to-date with modern aspirations, meet the needs of the public, and enhance their efficiency and contribution to achieving comprehensive and sustainable development goals.”.
For his part, Dr. Leo Lu, President of the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL), Dean and Professor of the College of University Library and Educational Sciences at the University of New Mexico, USA, discussed the report “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Education and Learning: Insights and Recommendations” issued by the Office of Educational Technology of the US Department of Education, which discusses the importance of AI literacy for teachers and librarians.
Dr. Liu Lu said: “The artificial intelligence technology and ChatGPT, when it was invented in 2022, brought about a radical transformation in the course of the education process and the mechanism of the work of libraries. This discovery is equivalent in importance to the discovery of fire, the invention of electricity and the Internet. Despite some risks of its misuse, the benefits that this technology offers are countless. ChatGPT technology has been able to succeed in the exams of law, business and medical colleges. Some legal issues, disputes and legal conflicts have emerged between writers, publishers and athletes on the one hand, and those in charge of this technology on the other, due to intellectual property rights, but the laws have begun to become clear to avoid such conflicts.”.
He added: “AI literacy is defined as the ability to understand and use artificial intelligence and to think critically about society, moral values, and daily life. Its main elements include technical knowledge and understanding of the basic principles, functions, and processes of artificial intelligence; ethical awareness and understanding of the ethical dilemmas that may arise from its use; practical skills to use AI tools and technologies efficiently and effectively; and societal impact, which includes understanding the impact of artificial intelligence on social structures, customs, and future developments.”.
Dr. Lu pointed to studies and two surveys conducted in 2023 and 2024 that showed gaps in AI literacy and a below-average level of understanding of basic AI principles, and the need to receive training with an emphasis on ethical aspects and respect for privacy. He confirmed that the “GPT4 Exploration Program” contributed to enhancing participants’ AI technology skills by 54%.
Integrating artificial intelligence into library services
The conference will discuss ways to enhance library services with artificial intelligence technology, by integrating it into library systems, with a focus on utilizing AI technologies to enhance library efficiency and provide innovative services that contribute to building a knowledge society, in addition to reviewing successful AI applications used in library management.
Seminars and discussion sessions
The conference program includes seminars and panel discussions covering a range of topics, including: the experimental library and how to take risks, accept potential failures and bring about change; building news knowledge and teaching critical thinking skills in school libraries; reimagining library access and support using conversational artificial intelligence; school librarians; the fun library; evidence-based daily practices in libraries; the transformation of libraries in the age of open science; integrating artificial intelligence into school libraries; and academic libraries, society, culture, and collaboration.
Innovation in the office sector
Catherine Cooper, head of the Eberhard Zeidler Library at the University of Toronto, Canada, presented the session “The Experimental Library: How to Take Risks, Embrace Potential Failure, and Make a Difference,” and how to achieve this using techniques learned from startups and fast-moving technology companies, and how to use experiments to make informed, evidence-based decisions and promote innovative initiatives. Meanwhile, Tom Popper, a school librarian and county library coordinator in the Clayton School District in Missouri, USA, presented the session “Building News Literacy: Lessons for Teaching Critical Thinking Skills in School Libraries,” to highlight the importance of enhancing students’ ability to develop news literacy skills.
Interactive artificial intelligence
The session, “Reimagining Library Access and Support Using Conversational AI,” presented by Yerju Lapalatin, Data Service Librarian at Zayed University in the United Arab Emirates, and Nikesh Narayanan, IT Specialist at Zayed University, explored the innovative use of conversational AI in libraries through the development of the AI-powered “Aisha” program at Zayed University Library, which provides personalized support in an innovative way to interact with library services and resources through integration with the library catalog and external sources such as Google and Wikipedia.
School librarians
The conference featured two sessions entitled “School Librarians: Sharing Stories, Lessons and Success,” in which school librarians who have won the “School Librarians” awards, organized annually by the Emirates Literature Foundation, shared their experiences on how to create successful school initiatives and programs. In the first session, Yasser Mohammed Abdel-Muttalib, librarian at Al Majd Model School in Sharjah, and Ibtisam Al-Marashda, librarian at Al Murooj Kindergarten in Sharjah, participated. In the second session, Elisa Yolanco, librarian at Safa British School in Dubai, and Marina Cuniotto, librarian and head of library services at Amity International School in Abu Dhabi, participated.
Fun library and evidence-based practices
In the “Fun Library” session, Megan Lutes, Arts Librarian at Rutgers University in New Jersey, USA, discussed new models for promoting library engagement and highlighting their positive impact on communities. She also addressed the importance of adopting a culture of creativity and play in libraries. Meanwhile, Megan Houlihan, Director of Library Resources Programs at the Open Society University Network (OSUN), presented the “Evidence-Based Daily Practices in Libraries: Case Studies and Reflections” session, during which she reviewed the “Evidence-Based Library and Information Practice (EBLIP) cycle in 2016, which includes scenarios from diverse functional areas, covering topics such as lending services, space planning, user support, and collections and evaluation.
stickers
The poster session will showcase a collection of posters designed by universities, institutions, and university and academic libraries, addressing specific themes based on the conference's slogan and main topics, to highlight their most prominent services, research, studies, and successful practices, along with the positive results and achievements they have attained.
The age of open science
In the session “The Transformation of Libraries in the Era of Open Science: Support from the Arab States Research and Education Network (ASREN),” Dr. Rawya Awadallah, Science Engagement Officer at ASREN, in Düsseldorf, Germany, discussed the role of libraries in supporting education and research by providing content and facilitating access to it, highlighting regional plans and efforts to adopt and implement UNESCO’s recommendations in the field of open access, and ASREN’s efforts to involve libraries and their librarians in open science initiatives.
Artificial intelligence in school and academic libraries
Ritesh Dhanak, Head of Innovation and Digitalisation at GEMS Modern Academy in the UAE, presented the session “Integrating Artificial Intelligence into School Libraries,” which reviewed the latest efforts to integrate artificial intelligence technology into school libraries. Meanwhile, Kara Jones, Librarian at the American University of Sharjah, addressed the session “Academic Libraries, Society, Culture and Arts,” discussing the collaborative partnership established by the American University of Sharjah with the Barjeel Art Foundation and Sheikh Sultan Saud Al Qasimi, and the 20 artworks displayed by the university library to enable students to develop visual analysis, critical thinking and personal interpretation skills.
Librarians' Lounge and Exhibitors' Area
The conference, which is the only event in which the American Library Association participates outside the United States, is sponsored by both the American Library Association and Sharjah Libraries. It forms a platform for communication between participants through the “Librarians Lounge,” which is dedicated to exchanging ideas and reviewing the latest products and services in the field of libraries. The conference also provides visitors with an opportunity to meet exhibitors and view books and services specifically designed to meet the needs of libraries around the world.
Culture and Art
Ahmed Ezz's marriage and his assistant? Zeina sparks controversy, and the artist denies it
Actress Zeina announced that her ex-husband, Ahmed Ezz, had married his assistant, reigniting the controversy. Ezz denies the news, while their legal battles over child support for their twins continue.
Renewed controversy between Zeina and Ahmed Ezz
The case of Egyptian actors Ahmed Ezz and Zeina has resurfaced after the latter dropped a bombshell on her official Instagram account. In a sarcastic post, Zeina announced that her ex-husband and the father of her twins, Ahmed Ezz, had married his personal assistant, who manages his artistic career, sparking a storm of controversy on social media.
Details of Zeina Ward Ahmed Ezz's post
Zeina wrote sarcastically in her post: "Congratulate the father of my children... he married his assistant. Now she'll work more diligently, and he's also saved his salary. A truly brilliant plan... and let's all listen together to 'Oh, World!'" This post did not go unnoticed, as it spread rapidly among followers and the media.
In response, Ahmed Ezz categorically denied these reports. In press statements, Ezz asserted that all the rumors circulating about his marriage were completely unfounded. He explained that if he ever decided to get married, he would announce it himself to the public, dismissing the idea of keeping such a matter secret. He added jokingly, "Who would get married in this cold weather?".
Background of the long-standing conflict between the two stars
This controversy is just the latest episode in a long-running saga of disputes between the two stars, which began years ago when Zeina announced her secret marriage to Ahmed Ezz and the birth of their twins, a claim Ezz consistently and completely denied. The matter escalated into a protracted and complex legal battle that captivated Egyptian and Arab public opinion for years. This battle concluded with a final ruling from the Egyptian Family Court establishing the paternity of the twins, Ezz El-Din and Zein El-Din, to their father, Ahmed Ezz, despite his continued refusal to acknowledge them or to marry their mother.
Impact and significance: an issue that transcends art
This case gains significance because it is no longer just a personal dispute between two stars, but has transformed into a public issue sparking widespread debate about paternity laws and the rights of women and children in society. With each new development, the public is divided between those who sympathize with Zeina in her fight to establish her children's rights and those who support Ahmed Ezz, who remains steadfast in his position. The continuation of this conflict highlights the challenges women face in family matters and places the lives of celebrities under constant media and public scrutiny.
Ongoing legal battles over alimony
The case didn't end with the paternity ruling; it extended to other legal battles concerning financial obligations. Recently, Ahmed Ezz's defense team filed a formal complaint against the family court rulings that obligated him to pay exorbitant sums in child support for the twins. These sums, exceeding 2.5 million Egyptian pounds annually, include child support, housing and custody fees, as well as the cost of a maid and school expenses. His defense team argued that these amounts are "exorbitant and cause significant harm," noting that they represent an unprecedented sum in the history of the Egyptian judiciary. This underscores that the conflict between the two parties continues to rage in the courts, away from the public eye.
Culture and Art
Ahmed Helmy: Returning to radio drama and cinema in Ramadan 2024
Superstar Ahmed Helmy returns to the art scene in Ramadan 2024 with a comedy radio series, "First Year of Marriage," and a new film, "The Weakest of His Creation." Learn more about his projects.
A strong comeback for star Ahmed Helmy in Ramadan 2024
Egyptian star Ahmed Helmy is preparing for a major artistic comeback during Ramadan 2024, appearing in two different projects, reaffirming his strong presence and diverse roles. This artistic activity comes to quench the thirst of his fans who have been eagerly awaiting his new work, as he combines radio comedy with complex cinematic drama.
"First Year of Marriage": A radio comedy with a Ramadan flavor
After a hiatus from radio drama, Ahmed Helmy returns to this intimate art form with the series "First Year of Marriage," which will air on Nile Radio Network. Radio dramas are an integral part of Ramadan traditions in Egypt and the Arab world, maintaining a loyal audience who enjoy them at various times of day, whether at home or on the go. Helmy's choice of this format represents a return to his roots and a direct connection with a wide range of listeners.
The series belongs to the genre of light social comedy, humorously and wittily addressing the paradoxes and situations faced by newlyweds in their first year of marriage. This topic resonates with many people, ensuring a wide audience engagement with the storyline. Alongside Helmy, the cast includes a distinguished group of actors, most notably Aisha Ben Ahmed, Emad Rashad, Arifa Abdel Rasoul, and Laila Ezz El Arab, promising a rich comedic experience built on witty dialogue and outstanding performances.
The importance and impact of radio drama
Despite the dominance of television drama, radio drama still holds its own. It relies primarily on voice acting and imagination, giving actors a unique space for creativity and listeners the opportunity to visualize characters and events. The return of a star of Ahmed Helmy's caliber to radio not only enriches the Ramadan season but also enhances the value of this art form and attracts new generations of listeners.
“His weakest creation”: A highly anticipated return to the cinema screen
On the cinematic front, Ahmed Helmy is preparing to return to the big screen after his absence since his last film, "Wahed Tani," in 2022. His new film, "Ad'af Khalqoh" (His Weakest Creation), promises a different artistic direction. The film blends drama, suspense, and dark comedy, reflecting Helmy's artistic maturity and his desire to explore new acting territories beyond the straightforward comedy for which he is known.
The film boasts a stellar cast alongside Helmy, including the renowned actress Hend Sabry in a highly anticipated reunion after their previous successes, as well as Hanan Youssef, Karim Kassem, and Mahmoud Hafez. Directed by Omar Helal, the film is expected to be one of the season's standout hits, thanks to its unconventional storyline and exceptional cast. This cinematic comeback reaffirms Helmy's status as one of the most prominent box-office stars in Egypt and the Arab world.
Culture and Art
Zeina and Ahmed Ezz: A hint of a secret marriage reignites the controversy
Actress Zeina sparked controversy with a cryptic post about Ahmed Ezz's alleged secret marriage. The story details the ongoing legal battle between the two stars and its impact on their careers.
The case of Egyptian actress Zeina and actor Ahmed Ezz has once again taken center stage in the media, after Zeina dropped a bombshell on her official Instagram account. Through a sarcastic and veiled post, Zeina hinted at a possible secret marriage for Ahmed Ezz, sparking a wave of speculation and controversy on social media platforms and reviving memories of the long-standing feud between the two stars.
The post, which didn't explicitly name names, contained scathing words that the public interpreted as being directed at the father of the two children. Zeina wrote: "Congratulate the father of the two children... he married his assistant. Now the work will be done with more integrity, and he'll also save on his salary... a very clever plan." Within hours, the post became a major topic of discussion, with followers linking it to unconfirmed rumors about Ezz's relationship with his assistant, believing that Zeina was confirming these rumors in her own way.
Background to the conflict: A story spanning years in the corridors of the courts
To understand the dimensions of this new controversy, it's necessary to revisit the roots of the dispute that began nearly a decade ago. In 2014, Zeina made a startling announcement, revealing her secret marriage to Ahmed Ezz and the birth of their twin sons, Ezz El-Din and Zein El-Din. Ezz vehemently denied these claims, refusing any marital relationship and refusing to acknowledge paternity. This sparked a long and fierce legal battle that captivated Egyptian and Arab public opinion for years. Ezz refused to undergo DNA testing to establish paternity, a refusal that the court later relied upon, along with witness testimony, to issue its landmark 2015 ruling establishing his paternity of the twins. This was followed by a series of other cases concerning alimony and school expenses, which continue to unfold to this day.
Impact and importance: between personal and professional
The significance of this case lies in its transcendence of the stars' personal lives, becoming a matter of public opinion that has brought to light issues of paternity and women's and children's rights in society. It has directly impacted the public image of each of them. While Zeina garnered widespread sympathy from the public, who saw her as a mother fighting for her children's rights, Ezz faced considerable criticism for his stance. This latest hint from Zeina only deepens this divide, especially as it coincides with new legal developments in their financial dispute, making it more than just a passing comment.
Parallel artistic paths
On the professional front, both stars are enjoying successful careers. Ahmed Ezz continues to solidify his position as a leading box-office star in Egyptian cinema. Following the phenomenal success of his film "Welad Rizk 3," which broke box office records, he is preparing for a major film project titled "7 Dogs," co-starring Karim Abdel Aziz and international star Monica Bellucci. Meanwhile, Zeina maintains a steady presence in the industry, having achieved notable success with her recent series "Fi Riwayat Ahadam - Ward wa Chocolat," which aired on the Yango Play platform. She is also preparing for the release of her new film, "El Shaytan Shater." Thus, the story of Zeina and Ahmed Ezz, a blend of personal drama and professional success, continues to captivate audiences and spark controversy, just when everyone thinks it has reached its conclusion.
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