The second edition of the joint conference between Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) and the American Library Association (ALA) begun today with a preconference workshop for librarians on RDA: Resource Description and Access.The workshop, conducted by Magda El-Sherbini, Professor and Head of the Collection Description and Access Department, Ohio State University Libraries, Columbus, taught participants how to utilize RDA to describe library materials and also focused on cataloging Arabic language materials.El-Sherbini said, “The workshop primarily shows us how to catalogue resources in the digital age in such a way as those who are looking for specific information can then find it. As more libraries around the world are adopting RDA: Resource Description and Access, knowledge of how to catalog library materials using this new standard is crucial. In this workshop, participants learnt how to apply RDA to describe library materials and we focused on cataloging Arabic language materials, with special emphasis on print monographs. Exercises are designed using real-world examples of RDA concepts which is the best way for participants to solidify their skills through specially designed quizzes and hands-on practice.”
Those attending the workshop will be responsible for cataloging resources in public libraries, research facilities, university libraries and the national UAE library. They have come from all over the region including Iraq, Mauritius and Saudi Arabia. The workshop included eight modules and utilized examples, quizzes and translation of key concept terms so that they can be internationally used. The idea El-Sherbini explained, was to create a unified terminology of RAD terms in Arabic. The workshop begun with an introduction to the subject and then went on to examine the function requirement of RDA and also covered general information about RDA including how to present relationship between entities. Functional requirements for bibliography requirements (FRBR) was also covered looking closely at how it is an independent way of cataloging information; what does the user expect to find; the goal of FRBR; how to define a clearly designed structured framework to the needs of users; what are the user looking for and how do we fulfill user information need. How to record the RDA element for work, expression, manifestation and item was also covered.
There approximately 330 librarians from 18 countries being hosted at the the ALA conference taking place alongside the Sharjah International Book Fair 2015 with expert speakers delving into topics of importance for professionals in public, academic and government libraries. Tomorrow’s opening sessions will see ALA President, Sari Feldman, Executive Director, Cuyahoga County Public Library System (CCPL) deliver the keynote address discussing "Libraries Transform" preceded by a welcome message from Ahmed Al Ameri, Chairman, Sharjah Book Authority. Experts from libraries across the globe will discuss concepts such as Big Data, Mobile Library, libraries as a cultural hub, linked data practices, digital literacy and LIS development in the region at different sessions during the conference. There will be a special stand for librarians to explore new products and services as well as library exhibits. There is also a designated Librarians’ Lounge open to librarians and educators throughout the Sharjah International Book Fair. For more information visit