Roger Mboma Kwenge's Testimonial

I am Roger Mboma Kwenge in charge of Spring of Life International Christian School library, here is my testimony. I have learned many things from this International Librarians Networking Program, mostly about the ways to manage a library with tools and techniques that are appropriate to libraries. the second thing is the way of communicating with our authorities and colleagues by asking questions, motivations and explanation, i have good colleagues who are always available for me and ready to help so it is not given to everybody but i have felt it with them, sharing and having the will to share these are qualities that we need to have for managing our libraries being librarians and advise others to follow this way because we need to improve our libraries.


Roger Mboma Kwenge
in charge of Spring of Life International Christian School librarian
Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dina Hussein's Testimonial

Building Global Connections Through the International Library Networking Program: My Experience


Participating in the International Library Networking Program (ILNP) was one of the most rewarding professional development experiences I have had in recent years. As one of the leadership group of the academic library at the American University in Cairo, I am always looking for opportunities to learn from colleagues around the world, exchange ideas, and gain new perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing libraries today. ILNP provided exactly that—and much more.


One of the most valuable aspects of the program was the opportunity to connect with library professionals from different countries and institutional contexts. Despite working in different regions of the world, we quickly discovered that many of the challenges we face are remarkably similar. Whether discussing leadership, staff development, user engagement, accessibility, or emerging technologies, our conversations highlighted both shared experiences and unique approaches that enriched our understanding of the profession.


Throughout the program, my group engaged in meaningful discussions about the evolving role of libraries in supporting learning, research, and community engagement. I was particularly fascinated by our conversations on artificial intelligence and its growing impact on library services. Exploring how different institutions are approaching AI adoption, staff training, and ethical considerations provided valuable insights that I can apply in my own work.


Another highlight was discussing leadership and team development within libraries. We exchanged ideas about motivating staff, fostering innovation, managing change, and creating supportive workplace cultures. Learning from colleagues with diverse professional experiences broadened my perspective and reinforced the importance of collaboration and continuous learning in library leadership.


The program also demonstrated the power of international networking. Although coordinating across different time zones required flexibility, our group maintained active communication, shared resources, and supported one another throughout the experience. The willingness of participants to openly share their successes, challenges, and lessons learned created a welcoming and productive environment that made the experience especially meaningful.


Beyond the professional knowledge gained, ILNP reminded me that libraries are part of a global community dedicated to improving access to information, supporting lifelong learning, and empowering our users. The relationships formed during the program are connections that I hope will continue well beyond its conclusion.


I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in ILNP and would highly recommend it to library professionals seeking to expand their global perspective, build international connections, and engage in thoughtful conversations about the future of libraries. The experience strengthened my professional network, inspired new ideas, and reaffirmed the value of collaboration across borders.


Thank you to the organizers and fellow participants for making this experience both enriching and memorable.


Dr. Dina Hussein
The American University in Cairo

Egypt

Ma. Victoria Hernandez Zaragoza's Testimonial

The ILNP removes limitations (distance, language, schedule, work environment) from library science and broadens its horizons; this enriches my professional experience. This time I have confirmed the following:
Library science, like other human sciences, continues to play an important role in integral human development: the development of users and also of professionals. The library-information center remains the essential meeting point for humanity to continue progressing.


The program challenges us to play the role of a user, among colleagues, and then, the role of a LIS professional with those same colleagues!


Each colleague is unique! I thank everyone for their time!


María Victoria Hernández Zaragoza,
Academic Librarian at Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del I.P.N. Unidad Saltillo, Coahuila, México.

Gregory K. Tharp's Testimonial

The International Librarians Networking Program (IRRT) provided an opportunity to develop

strong intercultural skills as participants came from diverse backgrounds which allowed every

discussion and group project to be a multifaceted learning opportunity. Also the uniquely rich

environment offered by virtual participation allowed participants flexibility in participating in the

IRRT.

Gregory K. Tharp, MLS, Adv. Cert., MCAC, CCEP, CGSP, CPhT

United States

Roxanne Clare's Testimonial

I am extremely grateful and fortunate to have participated in the 2026 International Librarians Networking Program.

Participating in the ILNP has fostered a lasting connection, as well as deepening my understanding and respect for libraries and librarianship on an international scale. I was matched with Sonja from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Stacy from New York City. Our interactions involved a blend of email correspondence and Microsoft Teams meetings, and I feel incredibly fortunate that despite our time differences, we managed to make face-to-face interactions work.

Although we work at three quite different libraries, we were amazed by the similarities that occurred in our conversations. This led to discussions and a deeper understanding of topics including library advocacy, Library Associations, library programs, mentorship and leadership, artificial intelligence uses and how our cultural contexts influence our work. We are excited about continuing our connections beyond the program.

This experience is invaluable for building lasting international professional relationships. I highly recommend it to fellow librarians looking to expand their international connections and be part of a global community passionate about information and libraries.



Roxanne Clare
Librarian - Le Fevre High School

Adelaide, South Australia

Anonymous Testimonials

My experience with ILNP was incredibly positive! I was hopeful that it would connect me to the wider Library and Information Services professionals' community and it did just that. The professionals I connected with were not from my school library background but we had similarities in our roles, which always makes me feel validated - we're never alone in our work! We said we would try to stay connected as colleagues, and I am hopeful that we will. Our liaison, Erica, was also approachable and I am so grateful she volunteered to work through this programme with us. I would love if someone were able to map out where all of our cohort was based, just so we could have the opportunity to visualise how many librarians are out there doing the good work

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Being part of the ILNP this year has been an absolute joy! Even though my schedule turned out to be incredibly hectic and time wasn't always on my side, I genuinely loved every single moment of participation.

This program is so much more than just professional networking; it’s a wonderful space for connecting from the heart. It was incredibly inspiring to share ideas, look at beautiful project photos from colleagues, and realize that no matter where we are in the world, we speak the same 'library language.' I wanted to be involved as much as possible because the energy here is truly contagious.

Thank you, ILNP team, for creating such a supportive and warm international family. I’m leaving this program with fresh ideas, great memories, and a renewed passion for what I do!

Li-Ting Liao's Testimonial

Joining the International Librarians Networking Program (ILNP) was an amazing

experience for me. I was paired with Emma, a high school librarian from Scotland.

We both noticed that teenagers often find it hard to understand and express their

feelings. So, we decided to make our libraries a "safe place" for students and created

a cross-border, anonymous postcard exchange activity.

We made a great team because we shared different strengths. Emma led her

students to create art and design their own unique postcards. On my side, I

organized reading activities, like listening to audiobooks and making a sticky-note

message board, to help my students understand their emotions before they started

writing.

This project successfully turned abstract ideas of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) into

real, creative artworks by our students. ILNP did not just open my eyes; it showed

me how working with an international partner can truly bring more excitement to

our local students.

In the end, this experience proved that school librarians are not alone. We are part

of a big global family, using knowledge and care to support our school communities

together.

Li-Ting Liao
School Librarian, Catholic Sheng Kung Girls' High School

Taiwan

Raphael Gerard C. Dela Cruz's Testimonial

Joining the American Library Association’s International Librarians Networking Program has been a truly transformative journey. It completely dissolved geographical boundaries, opening doors to deep professional connections and lasting global partnerships. I had the wonderful privilege of collaborating with two incredible colleagues: Ms. Trang Nguyen from Vietnam and Ms. Simone Paiva Okuzono from Brazil.
Our vibrant conversations about current trends and local challenges quickly highlighted how connected our worlds really are. I was fascinated to learn from Ms. Okuzono that Brazil offers dedicated PhD opportunities in Library and Information Science. Meanwhile, Ms. Nguyen and I bonded over how both the Philippines and Vietnam uphold the profession by requiring librarians to be official license holders.

Despite the distance and cultural differences, we discovered profound common ground. Libraries in all three of our nations are aggressively upgrading their technology to better serve their communities. As we watched Artificial Intelligence begin to dramatically revolutionize library services worldwide, the three of us found ourselves completely aligned on a core philosophy: AI holds immense promise, but it must be championed with responsibility and deep ethical care in librarianship.

This experience reminded me that while our local policies and languages may differ, our heart for service, innovation, and community is entirely universal. I return to my work inspired, globally connected, and deeply proud to be part of this shifting international landscape.

Raphael Gerard C. Dela Cruz, RL, MLIS

College Librarian

Filipiniana and Special Collection Librarian
Philippines

Antora Anwar's Testimonial

Participating in the International Librarians Networking Program (ILNP) has been an incredibly rewarding professional experience. Alongside my partners,  Natalie Buda Smith and Marija Rakić-Saranac, I had the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions despite our diverse cultural backgrounds, different time zones, and varied library settings. Since our first meeting on 23 March 2026, we built a supportive environment for learning, reflection, and professional growth.

Throughout the program, we explored topics ranging from career thoughts, leadership, and goal setting to the rapidly evolving role of libraries. These conversations allowed us to compare practices across different library sectors, exchange perspectives on common challenges, and learn from one another’s experiences. The program reinforced the importance of international collaboration and demonstrated how much librarians can learn from colleagues working in different contexts. My partners generously shared their insights, resources, and experiences, helping me reflect on my own professional strengths and identify areas for future growth.

I am grateful to the American Library Association for creating this platform for global networking and professional exchange. ILNP has expanded my professional network, broadened my perspective, and inspired me to continue learning, collaborating, and contributing to the library profession on an international level.

Antora Anwar, Junior Assistant Librarian, Independent University

Bangladesh

Nissrine Al Masri Al Chaarani's Testimonial

Participation in the International Librarian Networking Program (ILNP) has been a significant

professional milestone. Focusing on the theme of “Libraries as agent of change, inclusion and

community building” with peers from around the globe has provided invaluable perspectives on our collective role as educators.

The ILNP facilitated meaningful connection with my peer Jovana from Bosnia and Herzegovina. We bonded over a shared challenge: Making school libraries truly accessible to students of all abilities. This partnership allowed me to build upon my 2025 experience as an International Visitor Leadership Program participant, where I explored inclusive models like the Melrose Center in Orlando and the Cleveland Library for the Blind.

Inspired by the quote "The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision," I defined my library’s mission in Lebanon with the motto “Here all belong”. Together Jovana and I translated these global insights into our project “Together in Every Chapter”. By modifying classic literature to suit diverse needs utilizing AI for image generation and text simplification, and collaborating closely with special educators we are working to make our collection more inclusive.

This exchange underscored that the most impactful progress stems from sharing experiences across cultures. I am grateful for the ILNP fostering this collaborative environment which has deeply enriched my practice and strengthened my commitment to creating an equitable space for all students.

Nissrine Al Masri Al Chaarani

School Librarian

Lebanon