The Library and Information Science Program of the Faculty of Humanities at Universitas Diponegoro successfully organized an UNDIP Global Classroom as part of its World Class University Program. The event featured an international speaker, Prof. Ts. Dr. Mohamad Noorman Masrek from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), who delivered a lecture entitled “Future Libraries Related to Library Management.”
The program was conducted in two online sessions via Zoom Meeting on Monday, 4 May 2026 and Friday, 8 May 2026. The event was attended by students, lecturers, and participants interested in the development of libraries and information management in the digital era.
In his presentation, Prof. Noorman Masrek explained that public imagination regarding future libraries is often driven by technological advancement, including AI-based services, automation systems, and seamless digital user experiences. However, he emphasized that the concept of future libraries is not solely about technology, but also about the management strategies behind it.
The speaker introduced several examples of futuristic libraries around the world that have implemented innovative concepts in library space and service management. Among them were Tianjin Binhai Library, known for its immersive architectural design; Helsinki Central Library Oodi, which focuses on makerspaces and digital creativity; and Joe and Rika Mansueto Library, which utilizes robotic systems for collection management. He also highlighted Qatar National Library for its successful integration of heritage collections with modern digital access.
Through these case studies, participants were encouraged to understand that future libraries are no longer merely collection-centred, but are evolving into service-centred institutions that prioritize user experience. Libraries are also increasingly positioned as multifunctional public spaces that support creativity, lifelong learning, and community engagement.
The discussion further explored the transformation of libraries in the AI era. Prof. Noorman Masrek explained that AI is shifting libraries from being information access providers into spaces for knowledge interaction. AI technologies enable services such as AI-assisted discovery, conversational search systems, personalized knowledge support, and automated content generation.
Despite rapid technological development, he stressed that librarians will not become obsolete. Instead, their roles are being redefined into AI mediators, digital literacy educators, research consultants, data interpreters, information ethics advisors, and community knowledge facilitators. Therefore, future librarians are expected to possess competencies such as digital intelligence, AI understanding, data literacy, critical thinking, communication skills, and adaptability.
The lecture also addressed several challenges in developing future libraries, including high technology costs, limited budgets, staff resistance, lack of expertise, and rapid technological obsolescence. According to the speaker, innovation should always be based on user needs and institutional goals rather than merely following technological trends.
Through this UNDIP Global Classroom, participants gained global insights into the future direction of libraries and the importance of adaptive management strategies in responding to digital transformation. The event also reflected the commitment of the Library and Information Science Program at Universitas Diponegoro to strengthening international collaboration and preparing future information professionals to face the challenges of the evolving digital landscape.
