Date: Tuesday, December 24, 2024
Category: Culture
Title: Algeria Advances Library Networking and Digital Transformation
Location: Algiers – On Monday, the Minister of Culture and Arts, Zouhir Ballou, presided over a study day dedicated to national library networking and digital transformation. The event, held in the capital, was attended by officials from the Ministry, regional directors of culture, public reading libraries, and affiliated institutions, alongside a committee tasked with digital transformation and networking, according to a statement from the Ministry.
Focus on Modernization and Service Enhancement
The Ministry’s statement outlined the primary focus of the event: improving and expanding the quality of library services. The goal is to foster collaboration among public libraries and enhance their capabilities through a comprehensive digital and networking strategy that aligns with citizens’ expectations.
Minister Ballou emphasized the importance of keeping pace with technological advancements, particularly in digitalization and networking, to modernize library management and provide citizens with easier access to library resources. He remarked, “The extent of success in digitization and networking defines the effectiveness of library services in meeting the needs of citizens and readers.”
Encouraging Reading and Digital Adaptation
The Minister called on stakeholders to promote reading among Algerians, stressing the need to adapt to the rapidly evolving fields of digital technology and artificial intelligence. He noted that these advancements offer unparalleled opportunities to improve public services.
To maximize the accessibility of public library collections—which exceed 2.4 million copies—Ballou reiterated the necessity of digitalizing and networking libraries. He stressed that this approach is vital for fostering knowledge, culture, and scientific research while ensuring equal access for all social groups across Algeria.
Efforts Toward Nationwide Implementation
Ballou highlighted the significant investments made by the Ministry to digitize libraries, including employing technical staff and IT engineers to manage the digitalization process effectively. He stated that these efforts aim to position Algerian libraries as leaders in the digital age, responding to modern challenges and meeting the expectations of today’s tech-savvy youth.
The study day served as a critical connection point between central administration and local library officials. It provided an opportunity for the exchange of ideas, professional expertise, and a thorough review of challenges faced by public reading library directors.
This initiative reflects Algeria’s commitment to integrating technology into cultural institutions and ensuring widespread access to knowledge, bridging the gap between traditional library services and the digital future.
Source: DZWATCH.DZ
Author: Nor-Eleslam
