The University of Balamand Libraries hosted a gathering of university librarians from across Lebanon to strengthen institutional collaboration, exchange expertise, and explore the latest developments in academic librarianship. The gathering was held at the invitation of Ms. Dalia Koulaima, University Librarian, and brought together University Librarians from several Lebanese Universities; Dr. Marguerite Eid (NDU), Dr. Houeida Kamouryeh and Ms. Marie Therese Mitri (LAU), Fr. Fadi Kmeid (USEK), Dr. Loukman Mehou (AUB), and Dr. Hassana Mohiedine (BAU).

Discussions focused on the evolving role of academic libraries, emerging opportunities, and shared challenges in adapting to the changing academic landscape amid the growing impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on education and research.

The meeting also addressed ways to strengthen library support for faculty members in publishing in reputable academic journals, enhancing research visibility, and expanding Read & Publish agreements to facilitate access to scholarly resources and create more opportunities for open-access publishing.

As part of the gathering, participants visited the Monastery Museum, where Dr. Patricia Antaki, Director of the Department of Archaeology and Museology, led an insightful guided tour, offering a valuable cultural and historical perspective and enriching the exchange among colleagues.

Through initiatives such as this gathering, UOB reaffirms its commitment to fostering collaboration among academic libraries and strengthening their role in advancing knowledge, supporting research, and promoting innovation across Lebanon’s higher education sector.





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