The acceleration of the digitalization process in libraries in recent years has made it necessary to strengthen the professional training of library staff.
This was stated in an interview with Modern.az by Adiba Ismayilova, Deputy Director for Scientific Affairs and Library-Information Services of the National Library of Azerbaijan, Doctor of Philosophy in History.Ədibə İsmayılova Modern.az-a açıqlamasında deyib.
According to her, systematic professional development programs to enhance the professional knowledge and skills of library staff have been implemented by the Ministry of Culture since 2023-year.
"Considering the rapid development of information and communication technologies and the digitalization of library services, large-scale training programs covering all regions of the country have been launched. The goal is to enhance the skills of library staff in working with modern digital tools, improve the quality of electronic services, and ensure the formation of a unified management system in libraries."
A. Ismayilova stated that one of the main projects implemented has been the training on the application of the Koha Automated Library Management System (ALMS) organized by the National Library of Azerbaijan.Koha Avtomatlaşdırılmış Kitabxana İdarəetmə Sisteminin (AKİS) tətbiqinə dair təlimlərin keçirilməsi olub.
"Employees of libraries in Baku and the regions participated in these trainings. They gained practical knowledge in electronic cataloging based on the MARC 21 international bibliographic format, preparation of bibliographic records, organization of the electronic catalog, provision of electronic services to readers, and all modules of the Koha system. As a result, significant results have been achieved in the digitalization of library-information processes, the formation of unified bibliographic accounting, and the improvement of the quality of services provided to users."
The Deputy Director noted that the trainings were not limited to theoretical knowledge.
"In 2023-year, pilot trainings were conducted with the participation of experts invited from Turkey. Subsequently, business trips to regional libraries were organized, computer equipment was installed, connection to the Koha system was provided, and methodological support was given to employees. In the regions, face-to-face and online trainings, monitoring, and practical sessions were organized, and problems arising during implementation were investigated and resolved on-site."
According to A. Ismayilova, extensive training for library staff was held in Sheki and Ganja in 2025-year within the framework of the "Cultural Wind" program.
"In these trainings, special attention was paid to the organization of electronic information services, the application of innovative technologies in library work, and the use of the Koha system. Specialized trainings continued in various regions throughout the year, business trips were organized, and practical recommendations were given to employees. As a result of the trainings conducted with the participation of experts from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey, the Koha software has been further improved."
She stated that starting from 2026-year, a new online training phase has begun for all regional libraries based on the innovations implemented in the Koha system.
"At the same time, the National Library is conducting seminars and webinars on the formation of a digital library environment, electronic cataloging, the application of the MARC 21 standard, and the management of electronic resources. These trainings further strengthen both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills of library staff."
Adiba Ismayilova emphasized that as a result of the measures taken, the development of library-information services in the country is ensured on the basis of unified standards.
"The knowledge and skills acquired accelerate the digital transformation of libraries, improve the quality of services provided to users, and create broad opportunities for the application of modern management approaches in the library network."
