Alam Al-Kutub Journal is a peer-reviewed scientific journal published quarterly by Thaqeef Publishing and Distribution. It was established in 1400 AH / 1980 CE and focuses on the book and its intellectual, cultural, and knowledge-related issues, as well as library and information studies, and issues of publishing and authorship. The journal announces the resumption of its publication after a period of interruption, with the first issue of Volume 42 scheduled for January 2026 / Rajab 1447 AH, God willing. On this occasion, the journal invites researchers and academics to contribute their scholarly works for publication, noting that all submissions will undergo rigorous peer review under the supervision of a specialized academic editorial board.
A Proposed Model for Crowd Management Using Deep Learning in Al-Masjid Al-Nabawi
The rituals of Hajj and Umrah attract millions of people to Makkah and Madinah annually, making them the largest human gathering in the world, with nearly three million participants. Managing the safety of such massive crowds is a critical issue, as the risks of stampedes and overcrowding pose significant threats to pilgrims and visitors. With Saudi Arabia striving to become a global leader in the tourism sector, the importance of effective crowd management has become greater than ever to ensure a safe and seamless experience for millions of visitors. The proposed model consists of three main phases. First, video and image data are collected and subjected to pre-processing to improve their quality and ensure suitability for deep learning analysis. Second, a deep neural network (DNN) is trained to analyze crowd movement, density, and potential risks. Third, based on classifying crowd density into different levels (for example, from Normal to Heavily Crowded), appropriate management actions can be activated. For instance, if a particular courtyard is identified as having high density, the system can suggest redirecting worshippers to alternative gates or trigger an alert to crowd control teams. Conversely, a low-density classification indicates that conditions are normal. Through this analysis and automated response, the system aims to enhance the safety and comfort of worshippers, while providing strong support to mosque authorities, especially during peak crowding periods.
Artificial Intelligence, Crowd Management, Deep Learning, Prophet’s Mosque, Computer Vision.
The combination of smart tattoo technology and bio-ink sensors represents a new and quantum leap in next-generation wearable technologies. Together, they offer a seamless integration of biotechnology and electronics to monitor what's happening inside the learner's body during the learning process. Smart tattoos and bio-ink sensors are not merely incremental upgrades; they redefine the concept of wearability itself. By integrating this thin technology into the skin itself, they offer, with their smart capabilities, a service vision for student care characterized by privacy, transparency, and intelligence. This paper therefore defines smart learning environments, their components, and their capabilities. It then examines what is meant by smart tattoos and bio-ink sensors, reviewing their common technological features and what distinguishes them from traditional wearable devices. The paper also addresses: Smart tattoos, learning analytics, and their role in continuously collecting information during the learning process are discussed. The paper also reviews the use of smart tattoos in educational settings, assesses learner knowledge, provides targeted content, and interacts with previous and existing data during learning. The paper also reviews several limitations and challenges of wearable devices versus smart tattoos, such as the emergence of smart tattoos and bio-ink sensors as effective tools. Electroencephalography (EEG) tattoos provide brainwave monitoring to predict brain activity by monitoring sensory centers and brain-computer interface (BCI) technology. It also addresses several challenges, such as skin compatibility and irritation risks. The paper concludes with several ethical, privacy, and social considerations, including concerns about consent and continuous monitoring, data ownership and biometric data security risks.
Smart tattoos, Learning Analytics, smart learning environment, wearable devices.
This extended interview with poet Daif Allah Sayer Al-Anzi presents a profound cultural and humanistic vision of the book and reading as cornerstones of individual and collective consciousness, and as indispensable pillars for shaping poetic and literary talent. Al-Anzi traces the origins of his relationship with books, beginning with his uncle's library rich in linguistic works and poetry, thereby emphasizing the role of the surrounding environment, family, and home library in instilling a passion for reading from an early age. His intellectual formation was influenced by pivotal works in Arab culture, such as Kitab al-Aghani by Abi al-Faraj al-Asfahani, Fiqh al-Lughah, and Ibn Khaldun's Muqaddimah, as well as world literature represented by Leo Tolstoy, reflecting a cultural openness and balance between the local and the universal. Al-Anzi describes the book as a friend and mentor, transcending its function as a mere vehicle for knowledge transfer to become a perennial companion that enriches linguistic and cultural repertoire. However, he observes with painful realism the decline of printed libraries and low public interest in them, while acknowledging positive initiatives that attract youth through cultural activities. He concludes with a direct message to youth who have drifted from reading, calling on them to rediscover the intrinsic pleasure of reading and the tactile experience of printed books, arguing that digital reading is often quick and limited, whereas printed books offer depth, tranquility, and continuity, forming an unforgettable human experience.
The article examines the life and intellectual legacy of Saudi historian and literary figure Abdullah ibn Mohammad ibn Khamis (1919–2011) as a model of the encyclopedic scholar in the Arabian Peninsula. Raised in a religious and scholarly environment, Ibn Khamis progressed from traditional kuttabs to Dar al-Tawhid in Ta'if, and later to the Faculty of Shari'a in Makkah. He held several high-ranking academic and administrative positions, including Dean of the Faculty of Shari'a, Head of the Judiciary, and Deputy Minister of Transport, before retiring in 1972 to devote himself entirely to research and writing. His intellectual output spanned literature, history, geography, and travel writing, culminating in major encyclopedic works such as The Dictionary of Al-Yamama and dictionaries of the mountains and sands of the Arabian Peninsula. He also founded Al-Jazirah magazine and the Riyadh literary club. Ibn Khamis left a lasting cultural legacy, becoming an essential reference for the study of Arabian Peninsula heritage. He received numerous local and international awards, and his influence remained present in libraries and cultural forums until his death at the age of 91.
Book Presentation: Japan's Character... Between Experiential Reality and Perceptual Illusion
A presentation delivered on the book "The Character of Japan: Between the Reality of Experience and the Imagination of Perception" by Prof. Almo'men Abdullah, Professor of Japanese Studies at Tokai University. The book offers an in-depth, Arabic analytical reading of Japanese personality and culture, informed by prolonged lived experience within Japanese society and moved beyond the binary of admiration and rejection. The book examines the components of the Japanese mind and behavior through interconnected themes that reveal a comprehensive value system predicated on collective harmony, discipline, respect for context, preference for safety, and the conception of work as a moral duty. Furthermore, it explores patterns of implicit communication, education, leadership, political decision-making and cultural diplomacy, alongside Japanese-American relations. Additionally, it offers linguistic and cultural comparisons between Arabic and Japanese. The author concludes that understanding the Japanese experience cannot be achieved by merely adopting its institutional models, but rather by comprehending the underlying cultural framework that sustains them. Ultimately, he emphasizes that civilizational differences should be a way for mutual understanding rather than a source of conflict.
Report: The First Scientific Symposium on Libraries and Information Science in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
The report presents the First Scientific Symposium of Library and Information Science in the Age of Artificial Intelligence (SLIS-1), held in Cairo in December 2025. The symposium was organized by the Arab Group for Artificial Intelligence and sponsored by the Egyptian Library, Information, and Archives Association, serving as an academic and professional platform that discussed the profound transformation brought about by artificial intelligence in libraries and knowledge institutions. Through scientific sessions and applied workshops, the symposium addressed issues related to smart libraries, AI-supported scientific research, the digitization of heritage and manuscripts, health informatics, new information literacy, and user data analytics, while highlighting ethical and legislative dimensions and the challenges associated with Arab digital sovereignty. Participants’ contributions emphasized the shift in the role of library professionals from resource organization to knowledge engineering, as well as the importance of partnerships with the private sector, adopting open-source systems, and investing in Arabic data to build local artificial intelligence models. The symposium concluded with a set of strategic recommendations, namely updating curricula of library and information science departments, establishing ethical frameworks for the use of artificial intelligence, and strengthening integration among academics, technologists, and policymakers in a way that supports the development of Arab libraries in light of rapid digital transformations.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Book Marketing
The article presents an analytical review of a doctoral thesis by researcher Mina Ashraf Makar, titled "The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Book Marketing: A Comparative Study of Arab and Foreign Publishers", supervised by Prof. Raouf Abdel Hafeez Al-Hilal, with the participation of Prof. Amjad Abdel Hadi Al-Gohary, Department of Information Studies, Faculty of Arts, Ain Shams University, 2026. The study investigates the integration of AI applications and tools in the development of book marketing strategies, utilizing a comparative descriptive methodology on a sample of Arab and international publishing houses to evaluate the levels of publishers' awareness regarding AI technologies, patterns and modes of practical implementation, and their impact on the marketing mix elements and sales growth. The study found that AI is identified as a fundamental strategic pillar for modern book marketing, with a clear superiority of foreign publishers in terms of awareness and application compared to Arab publishers, whose level of awareness and use was found to be moderate. The study also highlighted the most effective strategies, such as contextual marketing, enormous data analytics, and predictive marketing, emphasizing that adopting these tools contributes to enhancing the competitiveness of publishing houses. The study concluded by presenting a proposed vision for implementing AI within the Arab publishing environment, supported by practical recommendations, most notably supporting smart transformation in the publishing industry, building human capacities, and strengthening research and technological partnerships.
تسويق الكتب؛ صناعة النشر؛ الذكاء الاصطناعي وتسويق الكتب
he Role of Artificial Intelligence Techniques in Classifying Arabic Texts for Knowledge Discovery:
The Study presents a review of a doctoral thesis entitled “The Role of Artificial Intelligence Techniques in Arabic Text Classification for Knowledge Discovery: An Evaluative Study”, by researcher Wissam Saeed Mohamed Ali, supervised by Prof. Ahmed Abada Al-Arabi, with the participation of Assist. Prof. Ahmed Hassan Abu Al-Atta, Department of Library and Information Science, Faculty of Arts, Tanta University (2025). The study provides a comprehensive theoretical framework on artificial intelligence techniques and text mining, types of text classification and their tools and algorithms. It highlights WEKA and Orange Data Mining systems as the most prominent open-source applications used in this field. The study reached several significant findings, most notably the superiority of deep learning techniques over traditional machine learning algorithms in terms of accuracy. It also established that classifying texts according to scientific departments is more accurate than classifying by specific specializations due to thematic overlap. The study concludes with a set of scientific and practical recommendations, including promoting the use of artificial intelligence techniques in library operations, intensifying Arabic studies in the field of text classification, and integrating artificial intelligence and text mining curricula into academic programs.
Upcoming Conferences on Artificial Intelligence and Publishing
يقدم المقال خدمة معلوماتية تتعلق بالمؤتمرات الدولية التي ستعقد حول الذكاء الاصطناعي وعلاقاته بكل المجالات العلمية والمهنية ومنها النشر والتسويق وكيفية استخدام الذكاء الاصطناعي بكل تطبيقاته الجديدة في النشر، حيث نقدم إحدى عشر مؤتمرا سيعقدون في قارات أمريكا الشمالية وآسيا وأوروبا حول هذه المجالات، وهذه المؤتمرات بجانب ماستطلعك عليه من أخبار جديدة تمامنا، وأهم التطبيقات الجديدة التي ستستخدم عام 2026، وكذلك مقابلة صناع وكطبار شركات الذكاء الاصطناعي، وتضعك في بؤرة الجديد في مجال النشر والتسويق .
Periodic Reports on Book Publishing and the Publishing Industry
Abstracts of Studies and News on Publishing and Artificial Intelligence
The article presents a collection of studies and news items about the relationship between publishing and artificial intelligence, from multiple perspectives. These include scientific and technological developments, such as the impact of AI technologies and tools on publishing processes, the evolving relationship between the two fields, and the legal implications faced by AI companies when intellectual property rights are infringed. Particular attention is given to AI applications based on large language models and narrative or large-scale textual works, especially novels and other works. The section also discusses the need to update intellectual property protection laws that AI companies must comply with when handling works protected under such legislation, as well as the ways in which artificial intelligence can be employed in book marketing and publishing supply chains. In addition, it highlights the most significant recent developments in the field. The section opens with a summary of an article by researcher Susan Farhat on the impact of artificial intelligence technologies on types of electronic publishing. This is followed by a summary of a study by M. Salani and J. Tapfuma on artificial intelligence and its role in simplifying content supply chains for readers. The third summary reviews a study by Matthew Allen on updating and enforcing copyright laws to address the threats posed by artificial intelligence. The fourth contribution is a summary of an article published in the Middle East (Al-sharq Al-Awsat) newspaper examining how major artificial intelligence companies have incurred millions of dollars in fines for copyright infringement. The article discusses, among other cases, a landmark settlement in which the company "Anthropic" agreed to pay substantial penalties, framing the outcome as a victory for authors’ rights and a deterrent message against copyright violations by AI giants. The fifth and final summary focuses on a study from Vietnam that traces a shift from class-action copyright lawsuits to the emergence of so-called “virtual publishers” who use artificial intelligence to deceive authors. These developments pose serious challenges to copyright protection, transparency, and content quality in the digital age. The study highlights major legal cases concerning the use of books to train artificial intelligence systems without the consent of authors or publishers.
A Dialogue Between an Author and a Publisher: German Author Bernd Brunner
The article features an interview with the German author Bernd Brunner, conducted by publisher Sherif Bakr. Bakr remarks, "Mr. Brunner has constructed a remarkable literary career by investigating the unconventional facets of cultural history, ranging from the invention of the aquarium to the philosophy of lying down, and from the symbolism of winter to the allure of the North Pole. His works, translated into numerous languages including Arabic, are characterized by a seamless synthesis of rigorous research and elegant literary narrative." The author frequently addresses obscure subjects that are seldomly explored. Regarding this, Brunner states, "I do not personally categorize them as "strange," though The Art of Lying Down might be an exception. That particular book was proposed by Wolfgang Hörner, an editor at a German publishing house. His initial concept centered on beds and sleep; however, I transformed it into something distinct. It was a convergence and integration of two creative minds. The book examines the physical posture itself and the diverse cultural manifestations of the horizontal state. Brunner further explains, "My ideas for other books often emerge spontaneously, almost ex nihilo; perhaps from a newspaper article or a visit to a weekend market. This was the genesis of my first book on the invention of the aquarium; I discovered an antique volume on the subject at a market, which triggered a flow of ideas. Occasionally, one project evolves into another. My work on the experience of winter is intrinsically linked to my book on the North, which I began several years later. This, in turn, led me to contemplate on other significant destinations, such as the Holy Land, Palestine, where Muslims, Christians, and Jews coexist and visit, making it a profoundly compelling subject." In conclusion, he said, "Presently, I am deeply interested in "contact zones," spaces where individuals from diverse cultures encounter one another." This dialogue offers a captivating exploration of the essence of the writing craft.
The Arab Observatory for Translation... We Are All Partners in Its Mission
Arab Translation Observatory and its significance for researchers and readers in the Arab world. In this article, Prof. Sherif Shahin academically sheds light on the Observatory, highlighting its comprehensive database of works translated into Arabic from 1827 to the present. This represents a massive scholarly endeavor. As Prof. Shahin notes, “In the fourth century AH, "al-Nadeem" presented the first attempt in the world at bibliographic monitoring and documentation of manuscripts of that era under the title "Al-Fihrist." Subsequently, scholars’ efforts in this field continued in pursuit of bibliographic control through bibliographies, indexes, abstracting bulletins, printed catalogs, and other tools. In the domain of monitoring and documenting translations from and into Arabic, numerous and diverse cultural works emerged, varying in subject matter, chronology, and geography, under titles, such as bibliography, bibliographic register, catalog, and the like. These efforts in bibliographic control persisted until humanity witnessed the practical application of databases.” The article then presents a set of significant findings and recommendations aimed at completing and sustaining this monumental project. These include linking translated works to their original versions in foreign languages and to other formats in which the translated work may have appeared, expanding access and enhancing discoverability, thereby facilitating publishers’ ability to reach a global audience. Readers, researchers, and those interested in translated books are no longer constrained by geographical location or traditional print distribution services, as books can now be accessed from anywhere in the world. Additionally, advanced analyses and insights, supporting mobile reading, and enabling the identification of the latest translated titles can also be provided, and improved distribution and marketing channels can be accomodated.
Prospecting the Future of Digital and Audiobook Applications, Summaries, and the Evolution of Distribution Patterns in the Arab and International Contexts (2025–2035)
The e-book, audiobook, and summaries sector is rapidly evolving across global and Arab platforms, driving the digitization of publishing and broadening access to knowledge. Estimates suggest that e-book readers in the Middle East and North Africa will reach around 60.6 million by 2030, with a penetration rate of 9.9%. In Egypt, audiobook users are expected to reach 23.8 million, and in the UAE, about 1.7 million by the same year (Statista, 2025). Reports show that the production of Arabic audiobooks reached 8,000 titles in 2021, compared to 75,000 in the U.S., while classic e-book sales grew by 14%, and digital publications rose by 50% in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE (Sharjah24, 2022; Worldys News, 2024). According to Ali Abdel Moneim, founder of Arab Bookverse, the number of Arabic audiobooks reached 12,500 by 2025. Currently, about 25 platforms operate in this field, with downloads ranging from one million to one billion globally and regionally. These platforms face challenges such as the lack of reliable statistics, rapid technological change, and the integration of artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency and content quality. This article explores the future of digital book platforms through interviews conducted by Alam Al-Kutub magazine with seven experts and executives from leading Arab companies. Using systems analysis to examine inputs, processes, and outputs, alongside a SWOT analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, the study compares global and Arab models to forecast the digital publishing landscape from 2025 to 2035.
E-book applications, Audiobook applications, Foreseeing the future of book applications, Economics of book applications, Societal impacts of book application.
Documenting and Digitally Providing Inscriptions and Scripts in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Preserving cultural heritage is fundamental to sustaining the accumulated knowledge and values across ages, and it contributes to enhancing cultural diversity and mutual understanding among peoples. Information technology, especially the internet, plays an important role in digitizing documentary and cultural heritage and making it accessible to current and future generations. The "Digital Library of Inscriptions and Scripts" project at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a pioneering model, as it creates a digital record of writings and inscriptions on buildings and archaeological artifacts throughout history, with high-resolution images, accurate metadata, and information about their original sources. It covers multiple classifications including rock inscriptions, writing tools and materials, architectural elements, manuscripts, and coins. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia stands out as one of the most prominent countries in the Arab world rich in its cultural and documentary heritage. The uniqueness of this heritage lies in its ancient rock inscriptions that document the early origins of the Arabic language and its alphabet, representing a cornerstone in the cultural development of the Kingdom and the Arab region in general. Researchers have documented through the project's website the existence of 577 artifacts representing Saudi heritage, varying between tools (such as clay molds), architectural elements (like door parts, tombstones, and columns), coins, religious and funerary inscriptions, manuscripts, and textiles (such as the Kiswah of the Kaaba). The researchers adopted a descriptive method to construct the theoretical framework, and the content analysis method to study the components of the digital library. The study concluded that the project effectively contributes to preserving the heritage of inscriptions and scripts and serves as a model that can be generalized and supported by relevant institutions.
Documentary heritage, heritage electronic portals, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, digital inscriptions, digital scripts, Bibliotheca Alexandrina
President of the National Library: The oldest Qur’anic manuscripts are preserved in Egypt, and we possess documents of princes and sultans as well as original copies by authors.
Professor Osama Talaat, President of the National Library and Archives of Egypt, was interviewed in a session entitled: "President of the National Library: The Oldest Qur’anic Manuscripts Are Preserved in Egypt… and We Possess Documents of Princes and Sultans as well as Original Copies by Authors." The interview covered the history of the establishment of the National Library and Archives of Egypt, the role performed by the National Library and Archives, and its collections. It also addresses the library’s role in supporting researchers and historians by granting access to rare documents and sources, its contribution to documenting historical events and writing down Egypt's history, the use of technology in preserving cultural heritage, and its international partnerships and cooperation with global archival institutions.
Abdulrahman bin Faisal Al-Muaammar (1940–2024) was a leading figure in Saudi journalism and cultural life, whose legacy continues to inspire generations. Born in Sudus, Najd, he grew up in an environment that valued knowledge and the written word, treating journalism as a mission and a passion rather than merely a profession. He completed his education in Ta’if at Dar Al-Tawhid and the Scientific Institute, where he engaged extensively with classical and modern Arabic poetry and became involved in cultural journalism. This foundation shaped his literary and intellectual persona, blending heritage awareness with contemporary sensibility. Al-Muaammar began his career at the Council of Ministers Secretariat but soon found his calling in journalism. He joined the Saudi Press Agency, rising to senior correspondent, and later served as Editor-in-Chief of Al-Jazirah newspaper, leaving a lasting mark on Saudi media. His influence extended to the cultural sphere through co-founding Dar Thaqif and launching Ālam al-Kutub magazine in 1980 with Abdulaziz Al-Rifai, creating a pioneering platform for literary reviews, author introductions, translation studies, and contemporary global thought. Renowned for linguistic precision, editorial rigor, and analytical insight, he authored significant works such as Hostesses and Nurses in Modern Poetry (1977) and Lightning, Mail, and Telephone (1984). He contributed to the development of cultural journalism, literary awareness, and research, leaving an enduring intellectual legacy. Al-Muaammar passed away on 27 April 2024, leaving a luminous imprint on Saudi cultural history.
Abdulaziz bin Ahmad Al-Rifa‘i (1924–1992) stands as a prominent figure in Saudi cultural history, whose contributions extended beyond official duties to shape the nation’s intellectual landscape. Born in Umluj and raised in Makkah, his early education combined formal schooling at Al-Safā Preparatory School, Al-Azīziyyah Primary School, and the Saudi Scientific Institute, with intensive study of Qur’anic interpretation, Arabic grammar, and classical and modern literature, forming a unique intellectual persona blending heritage and contemporary awareness. Al-Rifa‘i’s professional career spanned teaching, roles in the Directorate of Education and Public Security, and senior positions in the Royal Court, including Director General of the Political Department at the Council of Ministers and advisor to the Royal Court until retirement in 1981. Renowned for a reflective and precise writing style, he bridged knowledge with reality and books with readers, influencing Saudi journalism, literature, and cultural discourse. He authored over twenty works on literature, history, heritage, and intellectual studies, including Gibraltar and the Arabs, Ka‘b ibn Mālik, The Companion and Litterateur, and My Journey with Libraries. Al-Rifa‘i’s weekly Thursday Seminar, founded in 1959, became a vibrant cultural forum and led to the establishment of Ālam al-Kutub magazine in 1980. He passed away on 21 August 1992, leaving a lasting intellectual and cultural legacy that continues to inspire future generations in Saudi Arabia.
البيان الختامي للمؤتمر والمعرض السنوي الثامن والعشرون لجمعية المكتبات المتخصصة - فرع الخليج العربي 16-18 سبتمبر 2025 جّدَة – المملكة العربية السعودية
عقدت جمعية المكتبات المتخصصة – فرع الخليج العربي مؤتمرها الثامن والعشرين بمدينة جدَّة، المملكة العربية السعودية، في الفترة 15-18 سبتمبر 2025، بعنوان: "نحو استدامة المعرفة والحفاظ على الثقافة والتراث: إدارة الوثائق النادرة والمخطوطات والموارد التراثية في عصر التقنيات الناشئة والذكاء الاصطناعي"، بالتعاون مع هيئة المكتبات السعودية. تضمن اليوم الأول ورشتي عمل حول الابتكار في الذكاء الاصطناعي وتقنيات معالجة الوثائق والمخطوطات الرقمية. شاركت سعادة سكرتيرة عام الإفلا، السيدة شارون ميمس، ورئيس الجمعية وكبار الباحثين، وافتُتح المعرض المصاحب بمشاركة 400 مشارك من قيادات وأكاديميين ومهنيين وشركات القطاع. قدم المؤتمر 80 بحثًا وورقة علمية في 19 جلسة علمية، تناولت موضوعات الملكية الفكرية، حفظ التراث، وتطبيقات الذكاء الاصطناعي في إدارة الوثائق والمخطوطات. كما نظم معرض عالمي للتقنيات الناشئة والذكاء الاصطناعي في مجال المكتبات والموارد التراثية. خلال الجلسة الختامية، تم حل جمعية المكتبات المتخصصة – فرع الخليج العربي، وإنشاء الجمعية الخليجية للمكتبات والمعلومات والأرشيف (GALIA)، وإقرار نظامها الأساسي وانتخاب مجلس إدارتها. وتضمنت التوصيات تعزيز التوازن بين حماية الهوية الثقافية وتبني الذكاء الاصطناعي، تطوير الخدمات الرقمية والعمليات الفنية، دعم استراتيجيات الاستدامة، تعزيز الوعي المجتمعي بالمواد التراثية الرقمية، ووضع معايير وحوكمة لتبني التقنيات الناشئة في إدارة الوثائق النادرة والمخطوطات. كما تم نشر أعمال المؤتمر وكتاب "مكنز إدارة المعرفة" لدعم الباحثين والمهنيين.
تقارير مؤتمرات؛ مؤتمر جمعية المكتبات المتخصصة الثامن والعشرون
تهتم تقنية المعلومات وبشكل كبير بمشكلة الوصول إلى مصادر المعلومات، إذ لم تعد هناك حدود مكانية أو زمانية تقف عائقًا في طريق العلماء والباحثين للحصول عليها، وتعد الكتب أحد أهم هذه المصادر. وانتشرت تجارة الكتب عن طريق الويب وأصبح لها أسواقها الخاصة في كثير من دول العالم، ففي الماضي كانت متاجر الكتب تتبع الطرق التقليدية في عرض الكتب الخاصة بها، ولكن الآن مع التطور التكنولوجي وتطبيقات شبكة الإنترنت والهواتف الذكية ودخولها في كثير من المجالات منها: مجال تجارة الكتب، شجع الكثير من متاجر الكتب العالمية على استخدام التقنيات الحديثة في بيع الكتب التي لديها، وأيضًا الاتحادات والجمعيات الوطنية أصبحت الآن تمتلك بوابات على شبكة الإنترنت تقوم باستخدامها؛ من أجل بيع الكتب والدعاية لها؛ بهدف التوسع في تقديم خدماتها بصورة أكبر وفتح أسواق جديدة لها وللترويج لإصدارات الدولة؛ لتحقيق عنصر التواصل مع المستفيدين أينما وجدوا، ومع تزايد هذه البوابات الإلكترونية على شبكة الإنترنت بشكل ملحوظ أصبحت تلك البوابات تسعى بجدية نحو جذب المستفيدين. وفي هذا السياق، تقدم هذه الدراسة نموذج مقترح لإنشاء بوابة لبيع الكتب المتاحة في السوق المصرية تابعة لاتحاد الناشرين المصريين؛ لتلبية الاحتياجات والخدمات المعلوماتية المتنامية لمجتمع المستفيدين، بعد حصر وتقييم بوابات بيع الكتب التابعة للجميعات والاتحادات الوطنية على شبكة الإنترنت.
بوابات بيع الكتب؛ سوق النشر المصرية؛ متاجر الكتب
Arabic Legal Information Sources on the Web: An Evaluative Study for Developing a Standard
Legal information constitutes a fundamental pillar in the development of democratic societies, as it contributes to the implementation of the principles of transparency and accountability, and strengthens trust between citizens and state institutions. With the advancement of technology and the increasing reliance on the internet—a platform for information exchange—electronic legal sources have become more readily accessible. However, this quantitative increase has not necessarily been matched by a corresponding improvement in quality and reliability. In Egypt, legal sources form an essential part of the country’s technological and cultural development and play a crucial role in enabling citizens to access legal information easily and promptly. These platforms encompass a wide range of legal resources, including laws, regulations, decrees, judicial rulings, and other legal information. This study aimed to propose a comprehensive framework for evaluating the quality of digital legal information sources available on the web, based on international standards such as FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) and PQM (technical aspects, content, functionality, and user experience). Through this proposal, the study sought to enhance transparency and ensure the accuracy and quality of digital legal information, facilitating access as a fundamental human right. The study employed a descriptive-analytical comparative methodology to examine a sample of digital legal information sources available online, using content analysis to compare them against the specified quality criteria. The study’s findings highlighted the significant diversity of digital legal information sources, including official government portals, court websites, digital libraries, educational platforms, and legal databases. These sources play a vital role in promoting transparency, legal awareness, and supporting academic research. The study also indicated that countries, both Arab and non-Arab, make significant efforts to provide access to such information through document digitization, the creation of comprehensive portals, and offering electronic legal services while adhering to quality and cybersecurity standards. Furthermore, the study emphasized the pivotal role of e-government in Egypt in this domain through the provision of specialized digital platforms, despite challenges related to infrastructure, the digital divide, and inter-agency coordination. The research underscored the importance of evaluating digital legal sources according to international standards, such as FAIR, PQM, ISO standards, and transparency principles, to ensure the accuracy, reliability, and accessibility of information. In this context, the study proposed an integrated framework for publishing, providing access to, and evaluating these sources, combining formal, substantive, evaluative, and accessibility criteria. This framework serves as an actionable reference to improve the quality of digital legal content and enhance its widespread usability.
Digital Information Sources, Legal Awareness, Digital Legal Sources, Management of Electronic Legal Resources, Electronic Legal Information, Standards for Digital Legal Sources
حوار حول صناعة النشر في العالم العربي : تقرير رئيس اتحـاد الناشرين العرب
This discussion examines the state of the publishing industry in the Arab world through a comprehensive analytical perspective, drawing on the report of the President of the Arab Publishers Association. It highlights the structural and historical challenges facing this industry in comparison with its Western counterparts. Despite the relative growth of Arab publishing activity, the size of the market remains limited and disproportionate to population size and the expansion of higher education, as the value of the Arab book market does not exceed two billion dollars, representing only a small fraction of the global market. The dialogue underscores the negative impact of political and economic crises—such as regional conflicts, the COVID-19 pandemic, rising printing and paper costs, and reliance on imported production materials—which have led to reduced output and threatened the sustainability of publishing houses. The discussion also addresses the challenges of digital transformation, the dominance of foreign platforms in digital publishing, weak protection of intellectual property rights, and the widespread phenomenon of print and digital piracy, all of which pose direct risks to both authors and publishers. At the same time, the dialogue highlights positive aspects, including the emergence of new active Arab publishing hubs, support for translation initiatives, the growing role of women in authorship and publishing, and the efforts of the Arab Publishers Association in fostering cooperation, resolving disputes, and producing professional studies. The dialogue concludes with a future-oriented vision that emphasizes the need for legislative reform, the development of comprehensive databases, support for reading culture, and the empowerment of Arab digital publishing to ensure its regional and global presence.
publishing news in Saudi Arabia, the Arab region, and globally
This article addresses recent developments in publishing at the Saudi, Arab, and global levels, with a particular focus on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in advancing the publishing and journalism sectors. In Saudi Arabia, the article reviews recent academic studies highlighting the potential of AI technologies, such as Google Lens, for optical recognition of Arabic printed and handwritten texts, and their impact on supporting digital libraries and research in historical newspapers and periodicals. It also examines the use of AI by Saudi journalists, revealing moderate adoption of these technologies, with translation, fact-checking, and image processing emerging as the most prominent applications, alongside legal, technical, and human challenges affecting their implementation. Regarding the Saudi publishing industry, the article outlines the significant transformation under Vision 2030, including the expansion of publishing houses, support for translation, organization of the Riyadh International Book Fair, and the development of digital platforms. These initiatives have contributed to increased reading rates and enriched knowledge content, positioning Saudi Arabia as a promising regional model in cultural publishing. The article also highlights the recognition of “Manga Arabia” with a Publishing Excellence Award, underscoring its role in promoting Arab creative content. At the global level, the article discusses AI and copyright issues, particularly the Bartz vs. Anthropic case, which marked a pivotal moment in holding AI companies accountable for using pirated content, reflecting a worldwide shift toward protecting authors’ and publishers’ rights in the era of artificial intelligence.
Computer Vision and Its Impact on Supporting the Smart Digital Transformation of Cultural Heritage Projects in Arab public information institutions: An Exploratory Study
The Fourth Industrial Revolution is a knowledge- and technology-driven revolution, associated with innovative technologies that rely on AI, such as robotics, nanotechnology, quantum computing, biotechnology, Internet of Things, Autonomous vehicles, and computer vision. These technologies are characterized by three common features: complexity, speed, and comprehensiveness. The study aimed to observe the potential impact of Computer Vision technology on enhancing the smart digital transformation of Arab cultural heritage digitization projects in public information institutions, including initiatives at Bibliotheca Alexandrina, King Abdulaziz Public Library, and Dubai Public Library. To achieve its objectives, the study employed descriptive and analytical research methods, utilizing the research tools of a checklist and content analysis. The study relied on several sources to examine the literature review, most notably the Egyptian Knowledge Bank databases. It examined models of public information institutions' digitization of their heritage and cultural resources and explored the effects of computer vision technology on enhancing access to these information resources. The study reached a set of results, most notably the multiple uses of computer vision technology to enhance services in information institutions. It also identified examples of the potential impact of employing this technology to enhance the smart digital transformation of cultural heritage projects in the public information institutions sampled in the study. These included obtaining collections of images, documents, manuscripts, archives, museum collections, and historical images and processing them digitally using smart digital scanning techniques. These techniques can be used to pre-process these collections, segment them, extract important features, and classify them, facilitating search and retrieval. The study recommended that Arab public information institutions adopt initiatives targeting the smart digital transformation of their cultural heritage resources, relying on AI technologies and applications.
Computer Vision- Smart Digital Transformation - AI techniques – Digital Cultural heritage - historical archives- Public information institution.
The Origins of Reading and Writing in Ancient Civilizations: An Exploratory Intervention in the Anthropology of Knowledge and Reading
The study examines the origins of reading since prehistoric times and seeks to uncover the rituals and forms of reading in ancient civilizations. It also aims to understand reading as an oral ritual in contrast to writing as a recording and documenting ritual. Consequently, it answers a fundamental question: Is reading an heir to orality, or is it an entirely new phenomenon in human history? What are the main scholarly perspectives on this issue? The study further examines the term "reading" in both Arabic and English, exploring differences in meaning and their impact on the relationship between orality and reading. Furthermore, the study investigates the anthropological perspective on reading and the forms of social advancement associated with readers in ancient and Islamic civilizations. The study employed descriptive and historical methods, engaging in extensive discussions about the concept of reading within human communities and its relationship with orality and writing. It can be argued that definitive results regarding the exact relationship between reading and writing and their emergence in ancient societies remain elusive. The topic requires significant further interdisciplinary academic studies. For instance, Saudi and Arab universities have departments of anthropology alongside departments of library science and colleges of education; however, collaboration among them on such issues remains greatly needed. In general, the study suggests a relationship between reading and writing on one side and orality on the other. While orality is linked to the emergence of language, reading and writing can be considered, in one way or another, the heirs of orality. However, orality preceded reading by hundreds of thousands of years in human history. The findings also indicate that Islamic civilization transformed reading and writing from elite exclusivity to societal commonality across Islamic society. Moreover, reading and writing contributed significantly to the intellectual development of many ancient civilizations, where the readers attained a high social status. This issue also requires further academic research, as suggested by the results of this exploratory study.
Reading, Ancient Civilizations, Books, Writing, Orality, Anthropology of Reading, Cultural Anthropology, Islamic Civilization, History of the Book
Changing and Transforming the Egyptian National Library and Archives according to the Requirements of the Cultural Sector within Egypt Vision 2030: A Strategic Vision
The study aims to develop a strategic vision for transforming the Egyptian National Library and Archives (Dar al-Kutub al-Misriyya) in alignment with the requirements of Egypt’s Culture Sector within the Sustainable Development Vision 2030. The development of this vision went through several phases. The first phase identified the motives of change and transformation at Dar Al-Kutub. The second phase defined the objectives of this change and transformation. The third phase focused on identifying the areas to be included in the change and transformation process, specifically the library’s strategy (including its new vision and objectives), activities and operations, material resources and applied technologies, work policies and procedures, organizational structure, human resources, leadership, and organizational culture. The fourth phase determined the appropriate approach for change and transformation, i.e., planned change. The fifth phase involved developing an implementation roadmap for the transformation, which included (7) main axes, encompassing approximately (33) implementation measures. Finally, the sixth phase addressed the evaluation and monitoring of the transformation plan, relying on about 49 target indicators. The study adopted the case study method, one of the descriptive research methods, to analyze and describe in detail the current situation of Dar Al-Kutub. Data collection relied on a checklist divided into (8) axes. The study concluded with a set of findings that answer the research questions, along with a group of recommendations.
Change and Transformation, Egyptian National Library and Archives (Dar al-Kutub al-Misriyya), Egyptian National Library, Strategic Vision, Egypt’s Sustainable Development Vision – Culture Sector 2030, Phases of Change and Transformation.
The Rare Collections in the Libraries of Cairo and Sohag Universities: An Analytical Study
The study investigated and analyzed the rare collections held in the libraries of Cairo and Sohag Universities to identify the current state of these collections and examine their quantitative and qualitative trends in both universities. The study employed a bibliographic-bibliometric methodology and yielded several key findings. The most important of which are: The total number of rare items in the faculty libraries of both Cairo and Sohag Universities was 37,527 sources. Of these, 84.89% were in Cairo University libraries, compared to 15.11% in Sohag University libraries. Libraries of faculties belonging to the social and human sciences at Cairo University contained a higher percentage of rare materials, accounting for 66.64% of the university’s total rare collections (about two-thirds). This is compared to the applied and pure sciences faculties, which held only 33.36% (about one-third). Rare materials written in Arabic were relatively limited in both universities, representing only 24.40% of the total collections. Cairo University outweighed Sohag University in this, with 26.20% of its rare items written in Arabic, while Sohag University had only 14.32%. Books and references constituted the highest percentage of rare materials at Cairo University, representing 99.30% of its rare collections. The faculties of Engineering, Agriculture, Economics and Political Science, Mass Communication, Archaeology, Specific Education, Physical Therapy, Oral and Dental Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, and African Studies all recorded 100% of their rare collections as books and references. In contrast, periodicals accounted for only 0.59%, while maps and engineering drawings represented just 0.11%, found only in the Faculty of Arts Library. Similarly, books and references represented the highest proportion of rare materials in Sohag University libraries. The percentage reached 100% in the faculties of Education, Science, and Medicine; 99.29% in the Faculty of Archaeology; and 99.15% in the Faculty of Arts. Periodicals accounted for only 0.56%, while maps and other types constituted 0.14% of the collections.
Rare collections, Rare books, Bibliometric studies.
The Significance of Individual Efforts in Preserving Oral Heritage: The Archive of Dr. Salem Aqeel Muqaybil as a Model
Oral heritage is a crucial source of information and a form of legacy that must be preserved through scientific and systematic methods. Consequently, numerous individuals dedicated to documenting oral heritage have emerged. They rely on their personal initiatives and limited resources. From this standpoint, this study aims to identify effective solutions to address the challenges of the insufficient governance and support often encountered by individual efforts in documenting oral history. The ultimate goal is to safeguard this national heritage and develop mechanisms for its accessibility to users, thus achieving the overarching objective of its care and preservation. The study aims to highlight the oral heritage collection of Dr. Salem Aqeel Muqaybil in the Sultanate of Oman, which he personally compiled using available resources. The study employed a qualitative methodology to analyze and examine the nature and contents of Dr. Muqaybil’s oral heritage archive. The researcher conducted a semi-structured interview with Dr. Muqaybil, the collector of the oral heritage archive, to identify the challenges he encountered during the collection and recording process, as well as to explore his future plans for utilizing and making the archive accessible to beneficiaries. The findings revealed that Dr. Muqaybil’s collection comprises more than 400 hours of audio recordings documenting pivotal events in modern Omani history, making it a rich source for researchers and historians across various disciplines. Furthermore, the study demonstrated the evolution of documentation tools, from primitive devices, such as cassette recorders, to the use of smartphones, reflecting the potential of integrating modern technology into individual documentation projects. This research paper was presented at the Annual Conference of the Egyptian Library, Information, and Archives Association (ELA), in collaboration with the General Authority for Cultural Palaces, under the title: “Information Institutions, the Preservation of Documentary and Oral Heritage, and its Accessibility in Light of Digital Transformations,” held on 24–25 June 2025.
Oral Heritage, Documentary Heritage, Oral History, Archive, Salem Aqeel Muqaybil, Sultanate of Oman.
Cataloging and Classification of Arabic Manuscripts in Light of Modern Technologies and Artificial Intelligence
The Arabic manuscript heritage gains a unique significance, not only within the Arab and Islamic worlds but also globally. It constitutes the largest and most extensive corpus of surviving manuscripts, spanning centuries and currently housed in over 100 countries. Its immense value lies in documenting the original Arab-Islamic contributions across various fields of knowledge, making it an invaluable resource for numerous academic research. This intellectual heritage critically requires accurate description and systematic organization. This ensures rapid and easy accessibility. This study aims to provide a prospective vision for the technical processing of the Arab manuscript heritage. The study begins with an accurate examination of the current status of manuscript cataloging and classification practices, including the utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI). It seeks to identify the inherent strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges. The study employed a descriptive methodology using content analysis to examine existing rules, standards, systems, and applications. This was supplemented by a survey of domain experts to validate a future vision, which is founded upon two main pillars: Establishing a dedicated Arab institution responsible for Arabic manuscript heritage, and implementing several programs focused on establishing standardized cataloging rules, creating a unified authority file for classical Arab author names, developing a list of subject headings specific to Arabic manuscript heritage, and establishing a unified classification system for Arabic manuscripts.
Arabic-Islamic Heritage, Arabic Manuscripts; Manuscript Cataloging, Manuscript Classification, Cataloging Standards, Name Authority Files, Manuscript Cataloguer, Application of Artificial Intelligence in Cataloging and Classification
Information Ethics Awareness among Teachers Regarding Intellectual Property and the Use of Digital Resources
This study aimed to diagnose the level of awareness of information ethics among teachers, focusing on intellectual property rights and the responsible use of digital resources. The study adopted a quantitative descriptive methodology, and a 15-item questionnaire was administered to a sample of 33 teachers in a boys' educational complex in Taif, Saudi Arabia, which includes 60 teachers. The results also revealed a good theoretical awareness among the teachers, as 81.8% of them expressed conviction in the importance of adhering to information ethics. However, a clear gap emerged between knowledge and practice, as 27.3% of teachers admitted to copying and distributing copyrighted books. The results also indicated key obstacles faced by teachers, which included time constraints (57.6%), difficulty accessing licensed resources (42.4%), and unclear school policies (39.4%). The study highlighted an urgent need for training, as 84.8% of teachers expressed their need for specialized training courses. The teachers also demonstrated a high spirit of cooperation, with 75.8% of them taking the initiative to advise their colleagues when they notice mistakes in handling digital resources. The study concluded with a set of recommendations, the most important of which are establishing a reliable school platform for licensed educational materials, creating a clear policy guide for using digital resources, activating a peer mentoring system, and organizing internal training programs. These recommendations emphasize the importance of adopting a comprehensive approach that includes school administration, teachers, and supervisory bodies to enhance awareness of information ethics and turn it into a daily practice.
Information ethics, intellectual property, copyright, digital educational resources, information science .
The Embedding Knowledge-Based Economy Courses in Omani Higher Education
This study aims to investigate the extent to which Knowledge-Based Economy courses are embedded within undergraduate programs at Omani universities and how this integration aligns with the national priorities of Oman Vision 2040. The Knowledge-Based Economy prioritizes the production and utilization of knowledge, information, and skills to stimulate economic growth. To achieve the study’s objectives, a content analysis approach was employed, reviewing degree plans from both public and private higher education institutions. The study population comprised 33 HEIs across Oman, with a purposive sample of four universities: Sultan Qaboos University and the University of Technology and Applied Sciences representing the public sector, and Dhofar University and the University of Nizwa representing the private sector.
Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation