The 35th National Symposium Highlights Innovation, Collaboration, and the Evolving Role of Libraries

On 25 March 2026, the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova, the National Library Council, and the National Library of the Republic of Moldova jointly organized the 35th edition of the National Symposium “Library Year 2025”.  Held under the theme “Libraries’ Involvement in Digital Transformation: Opportunities and Challenges”, the event brought together library professionals from across the country to reflect on achievements, share best practices, and outline future directions for the sector.

The Symposium served as a key platform for evaluating the strategic directions of the 2025 library year, emphasizing the essential role of libraries in advancing digital transformation and supporting the development of a knowledge-based society. It also reinforced professional collaboration within Moldova’s National Library System, fostering dialogue and innovation across institutional boundaries.

The event gathered 187 participants, including senior and operational managers from national, public, academic, school, and specialized libraries, as well as representatives of local public authorities and the National Book Chamber. Participants represented nearly all regions of the country, highlighting the nationwide relevance of the discussions.

The Program of Symposium featured 17 professional presentations structured around key library sectors, reflecting a broad spectrum of initiatives and community impact. Contributions from national libraries addressed strategic projects, the impact of digital technologies, and the role of libraries in fostering digital literacy among children and young people.

Academic libraries presented advancements in digital transformation supporting education and research, while school and college libraries showcased innovative approaches to digital education, media literacy, and safe information environments. Public libraries highlighted their growing role as community hubs promoting digital inclusion and civic participation, and specialized libraries demonstrated their contribution to research and innovation through tailored digital services.

Throughout the Symposium, speakers explored how libraries are adapting to rapid technological change while maintaining their core mission of ensuring access to information and culture. Discussions were focused on:

• the integration of digital technologies into library services;
• the development of users’ digital competencies;
• the role of libraries in combating misinformation and promoting safe digital environments;
• innovative services designed to meet evolving community needs.

A dedicated session on reflections and conclusions emphasized the importance of preserving the identity of libraries while expanding their digital capacities. Speakers highlighted the need to balance technological advancement with inclusive access and cultural participation.

A notable feature of the Symposium was the “My Story as a Digital Creator” initiative, which collected and promoted successful digital projects from across the country. Seventeen success stories were submitted by libraries, illustrating diverse and impactful approaches to digital engagement—from community digital literacy programs to innovative online services and cultural initiatives.

Five projects were selected and presented during the event, representing public and national libraries and demonstrating the creativity and adaptability of Moldova’s library sector in the digital age.

The outcomes of the Symposium underline several key developments within Moldova’s library field:

• strengthening the institutional and strategic framework of the library sector;
• increasing recognition of libraries as leaders in digital innovation and literacy;
• enhancing the capacity of academic libraries to support education and research through advanced digital services;
• expanding the role of school libraries in developing digital and civic competencies;
• reinforcing public libraries as inclusive community centres;
• boosting the relevance of specialized libraries in supporting research and innovation.
• Moreover, the symposium contributed to the dissemination of best practices, the motivation of library professionals, and the wider adoption of innovative solutions across the system.

The National Symposium “Library Year 2025” demonstrated the resilience and adaptability of Moldova’s National Library System in responding to contemporary challenges. By fostering knowledge exchange, encouraging innovation, and strengthening professional competencies, the event reaffirmed the vital role of libraries in shaping an inclusive and digitally empowered society.

At the same time, the National Library of the Republic of Moldova continues to act as a cornerstone of the national library system and a center of excellence, consolidating professional expertise and ensuring its transfer to all information and documentation institutions nationwide.

Text by: Ecaterina Dmitric, Head of Section, National Library of the Republic of Moldova

Translated by: Mariana Kiriakov, Senior specialist, National Library of the Republic of Moldova

Links:

https://www.facebook.com/BibliotecaNationala/posts/pfbid02N4P1JSqYJZwriQZEDWNidk9DE9WDUMf1ahv131Wespmgvyh4AqBmBq97yjracDAgl

https://stiri.md/article/social/bibliotecarii-din-moldova-se-reunesc-la-simpozionul-national-anul-biblioteconomic-2025/

https://www.facebook.com/anul.biblioteconomic/posts/pfbid02bKenrvS7BWTBNGWUGUHCXsjfWzvtpiiJdVqHjwgDXnMnnpYwXgP7PVbTa8wkLpFwl

Symposium agenda

https://www.facebook.com/anul.biblioteconomic/posts/pfbid021yyfVFTTdcJpPvMHR8kRsP4Ejx25YUaFXuTnd7Whx7cTjR24NMDcCcs5rVPCo8vbl