The National Széchényi Library and the National Library of Kosovo Sign a Cooperation Agreement

 

During the event, held at the National Széchényi Library, the parties reviewed opportunities for cooperation in the fields of professional exchange of library expertise, continuing professional development for library staff, digitisation, and the development of modern library services.

The preparation of the agreement was facilitated by the Embassy of the Republic of Kosovo in Hungary. The cooperation aims to strengthen the OSZK's international professional network, promote mutual knowledge-sharing, and deepen professional dialogue between national libraries.

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In her address, Judit Gerencsér emphasised that national libraries bear a special responsibility for collecting, preserving, researching and making cultural heritage accessible, as well as for disseminating knowledge and fostering international professional dialogue.

She highlighted that cooperation between libraries offers valuable opportunities to share professional experience, learn about institutional best practices, and continuously improve library services. The Acting Director General also expressed her particular gratitude to Ambassador Delfin Pllana and the Embassy of the Republic of Kosovo in Budapest for initiating the cooperation and facilitating the establishment of professional ties between the two national libraries.

In presenting the activities of the OSZK, Judit Gerencsér provided an overview of the national library's responsibilities in collection management, preservation, research support and the coordination of professional library activities at the national level, as well as its work to preserve cultural heritage and ensure wide public access to it. She emphasised the importance of harmonising traditional core library functions with innovative service development, with particular regard to digital content services and the opportunities offered by the application of artificial intelligence in libraries. She also stressed that the future development of libraries depends to a significant extent on the continuous development of staff competencies, international knowledge-sharing, and the professionally grounded, responsible and ethical application of new technologies.

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Ambassador Delfin Pllana described the agreement as another important milestone in Hungarian–Kosovar cultural relations. He highlighted the importance of professional exchange, training and digitisation, noting that support from the institutions and ministries concerned could also play an important role in the practical implementation of the cooperation. He reaffirmed that the Embassy intends to continue supporting professional relations between the two libraries in the future. 

Director General Blerina Rogova Gaxha thanked the Hungarian hosts and emphasised that the true value of the agreement would be demonstrated through the joint professional activities carried out in the years ahead. She expressed her hope that the Kosovo side would also have the opportunity to welcome representatives of the OSZK in the future.

During the discussions, the parties explored several potential areas of cooperation. These included professional training for librarians, the exchange of best practices in the development of library services, sharing experience in digitisation, and exploring the application of artificial intelligence and new technologies in libraries. The possibility of mutually showcasing Hungarian and Kosovar book culture was also raised, including through the establishment of dedicated book corners, which could help introduce a wider audience to the literary and cultural values of both countries. 

The signed agreement provides a framework for continuing professional dialogue between the two institutions and preparing potential joint initiatives. The parties may decide on the content of specific programmes, the conditions for their implementation and their schedule following further professional consultations.

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Following the signing ceremony, members of the Kosovar delegation took part in a professional visit to the National Széchényi Library. During a guided tour, they learned about the history of the national library and explored the outstanding treasures of its special collections and cultural heritage. As part of the programme, the delegation also visited the OSZK's Digitisation Centre.