The National Library of the Kingdom of Morocco (BNRM) and France’s National Library (BNF) inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to promote cooperation and coordination in the field of library sciences, at the International Book Fair (SIEL) in Rabat, on Monday, according to a press release.
The agreement, signed by BNRM interim director Latifa Moftaqir and BNF president Gilles Pécout, constitutes a milestone in cultural cooperation between the two countries, paving the way for the two libraries to mutually improve staff skills and develop concrete projects to promote common interests.
The deal includes cooperation in the digitization of document collections, the introduction of training programs, the exchange of knowledge and resources among the staff of the two libraries, and the organization of joint cultural and scientific events.
The libraries already have four agreements in place. The first, signed in 2004, covers the construction and modernization of the BNRM. The second, from 2008, commits to methodological and technological support. The third, from 2011, drives the strengthening of joint initiatives in areas of library science, public access, and cultural programming. The fourth, signed in 2014, governs the preservation of cultural heritage information.
Moftaqir stated that the MoU is an extension of the libraries’ long-standing partnership since 2004, and now it has been “extended to cover other domains, including digitization, library management, and training.”
Pécout said he was pleased with the new agreement with BNRM, calling it a “prominent African library,” and highlighting the continuation of their ” extremely close relationship.”
Key dignitaries, including Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication; Christophe Lecourtier, France’s Ambassador to Morocco; as well as a host of political, diplomatic, and media representatives attended the signing ceremony.
The 29th SIEL literary extravaganza kicked off last Thursday in Rabat under the overarching theme of “Together with our differences.” With 743 exhibitors from 47 countries and cultural institutions, the fair is focusing on artificial intelligence and youth, promoting literature and intercultural dialogue. Prominent literary figures were honored and agreements and partnerships were signed.