The prize supports research in library and information sciences and promotes greater awareness of the sector’s role in advancing cultural and academic development across the Arab world.

Artificial intelligence in libraries: Innovation and impact

The 26th edition, themed “Artificial Intelligence in Libraries: Innovation and Impact”, focuses on the use of emerging technologies to enhance library services and knowledge management.

Prizes will be presented in three categories: Research Prize, Best Arab Library or Information Institution, and Best Project or Practice in the Field. Winners will be honoured at the Sharjah Prize for Library Literature Forum at the Sharjah Book Authority headquarters, with a total prize fund of AED 85,000.

Artificial intelligence and knowledge production

Eman Bushlaibi, Director of SPL, said: “Supported by the Sharjah Book Authority, the Sharjah Prize for Library Literature advances research and professional practice in library and information sciences, reflecting the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to strengthen culture, scholarship and scientific research across the Arab world.”

She added: “This year’s focus on artificial intelligence reflects the rapid transformation taking place across libraries and information institutions. As organisations increasingly adopt intelligent technologies, the prize aims to encourage research and practical applications that enhance knowledge services, improve access to information and reinforce the role of libraries in innovation and development.”

Keeping pace with technological advancement

As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly embedded in library and information services, the Sharjah Prize for Library Literature 2025-2026 seeks to encourage Arab research and practical applications exploring its impact on knowledge management, user experience, discovery tools, and digital infrastructure.

Research Prize

The Research Prize invites studies examining artificial intelligence in libraries across three themes: AI Technologies and Core Applications, User Experience and Accessibility, and Technical Infrastructure and Implementation.

Three winners will be recognised, with prizes of AED 20,000 for first place, AED 15,000 for second place, and AED 10,000 for third place.

Submissions must be original, unpublished and based on rigorous research methods, with full source documentation and a clear contribution to library and information science.

Best Arab Library or Information Institution

The Best Arab Library or Information Institution category, carrying a prize of AED 20,000, recognises excellence in the use of artificial intelligence to enhance services, improve access to information and strengthen library operations.

Entries will be assessed on the institution’s integration of AI and its impact on the communities it serves, alongside criteria such as service quality, accessibility, data protection, collaboration, innovation, and readiness to respond to evolving user needs and technological change.

Best Project and Practice in the Field

The Best Project or Practice in the Field category, carrying a prize of AED 20,000, recognises projects and initiatives by Arab libraries and information centres that deliver practical solutions in artificial intelligence, digital transformation or knowledge management.

Entries will be evaluated on their objectives, implementation, professional and community impact, and potential for adoption by other institutions. Assessment criteria also include innovation, support for digital transformation, development of research and discovery tools, and use of emerging technologies to improve services and the user experience.