Discussing the enhancement of cooperation and mechanisms of electronically linking their libraries

The National Archives acquaints “Sharjah Documentation and Archives” with its experience in research

The National Archives of the UAE discussed the enhancement of cooperation with Sharjah Documentation and Archives Authority, particularly with regard to the Research and Knowledge Services Department, the work mechanism in the Emirates Library, Oral History and the methods used to conduct and conserve interviews, and making them accessible.

A delegation from Sharjah Documentation and Archives Authority visited the headquarters of the National Archives in Abu Dhabi, and was briefed on the NA’s projects and work methods. The delegation was impressed by the position the NA reached in the field of oral history since the implementation of Federal Law No. (7), 2008, issued by H.H. Sheikh Khaliah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, regarding the NA. The delegation was also impressed by the NA’s compliance with the international standards and best practices in this field, by organizing workshops and training lectures to promote the importance of oral history in recording the past of our ancestors. The two delegations discussed the phases of the oral history interview, its objectives and contents, and the importance of obtaining the consent of the interviewees.  Moreover, interviews are available to researchers through “Their Memory is Our History” series.

The guest delegation learned about the history of the Emirates Library, which was founded with the establishment of the NA in 1968, to carry out tasks relative to the objectives of the NA, i.e. to collect and preserve the Nation’s memory, and to provide decision makers, researchers, academics and students with services related to the history and heritage of the UAE and the Gulf region.   The delegate was briefed also on methods of cataloguing and the accessibility of its collection, as well as performance measurement and indicators. The guest delegation members expressed their aspirations for the electronic linking between the Emirates Library and the library of the Sharjah Documentation and Archives Authority. The two parties reviewed the electronic link methods and benefits for both sides.

The delegation was acquainted with the Research and Knowledge Services Department, its sections, units,  projects and achievements.  The discussion focused on the department’s publications’ mechanism, measurement indicators, and its  role in serving customers and meeting their requirements of references as well as research consultation.

The two parties agreed on experience exchange and on constructive and fruitful cooperation in matters of common interest. The guest delegation headed by Ahmed Salman Al Salman, Director of Research and Studies Department at Sharjah Documentation and Archives Authority, appreciated the NA’s experience, which is constantly developing in line with the great development in the UAE in various vital fields under the guidance of its wise leadership.

In Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Virtual Reality Theatre, the authority’s delegation watched a 3-D documentary film on the UAE’s past and bright present. The delegation members took a tour of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Hall, which contains samples of written documents, photographs, maps and electronic albums of the UAE’s leaders and main figures.