“Digital Technologies for Libraries” Training for Partner Universities

July 1, 2024

#китепкана#библиотека#library

On June 25-26, 2024, AUCA hosted a two-day “Digital Technologies for Libraries” training, which gathered 25 representatives from partner universities in the regions and Bishkek. The training equipped librarians and academic staff with the latest digital tools and strategies to improve library services.

In his opening remarks, AUCA President Dr. Timothy O’Connor emphasized the important role of collaboration among universities in advancing educational resources and services.

The opening session also featured an insightful address by the US Embassy Information Officer Nellie Petlick. Her participation highlighted the support and interest of the US Embassy in promoting digital transformation and educational collaboration in Kyrgyzstan. In the current academic year, the U.S. Embassy supported the “Equity and Access to Knowledge for a Better Future” project, which helped strengthen collaboration among university libraries and improved access to electronic resources for regional institutions. In addition, the libraries of AUCA and Naryn State University jointly worked on a practical guide titled "Electronic Resources in Educational Organizations" published in Kyrgyz and Russian.

EBSCO Information Services, an international provider of academic resources, joined as a co-sponsor of the event and contributed to the program through practical training sessions. The EBSCO team shared the latest updates and innovations in their research databases, e-books, and electronic services.

The training was further enriched by the participation of speakers from the International EIFL Consortium. The Open Access Programme Team, Iryna Kuchma and Milica Sevkusic shared about OA developments and trends and discussed quality vs prestige in scholarly publishing.

The Institute for International Cooperation of the Deutscher Volkshochschul-Verband e.V. (DVV), the German Adult Education Association also joined the training. DVV Project Manager Ainura Makebaeva presented their programs on lifelong learning and the integration of adult education principles in the context of library services in Kyrgyzstan.

AUCA Departments also supported the training program. Participants highly appreciated the hands-on approach, which offered valuable insights into integrating AI technologies into library work during the practical session on Artificial Intelligence delivered by Ekaterina Kombarova from AUCA CTLT.

 

Professors Syrgak Kydyraliev and Anarkul Urdaletova presented their latest publications on Financial Literacy and Mathematical Olympiads, which are available in open access via AUCA Digital Repository.

Attendees visited the newly launched AUCA Makerspace Learning and Design Center, a state-of-the-art facility designed to foster creativity, innovation, and hands-on learning. During the visit, they explored cutting-edge tools and equipment for prototyping, 3D printing, laser cutting, and other maker activities. The discussion focused on potential collaboration opportunities to maximize the impact of the center.

“Digital Technologies for Libraries” is the fourth training event organized by AUCA within three years, aiming to foster collaboration among academic libraries. This initiative seeks to equip librarians and academic staff with the latest digital skills and knowledge necessary to enhance their services and adapt to the evolving digital landscape.

<< go to news list