By : Nadeem Israr Usmani.
Breaking Barriers in Library Sciences
Rabiya Ali Faridi has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Pakistani woman librarian elected to represent Pakistan at the prestigious International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA). Her journey, marked by dedication, innovation, and service, reflects not just personal success but a proud moment for the entire library and academic community of Pakistan.
Academic Background and Career Foundations
Rabiya, completed her Master’s degree in Library and Information Science from the University of Karachi in 2009. Shortly after, she began an internship at the Dr. Mahmud Hussain Library University of Karachi. Her first formal position followed by a role of librarian in the department of commerce University of Karachi from 2010 to 2013.
In 2013, she joined the Notre Dame Institute of Education, Karachi, as a librarian — a position she continues to hold with distinction. Over the years, she has organized numerous workshops, training sessions, and seminars aimed at advancing the skills of librarians across Pakistan.
Championing the Librarian Community
Rabiya is not just a practitioner but a mentor and advocate for the professional development of librarians. She became involved with the Regional library organisation, an initiative committed to uniting librarians and promoting professional collaboration. In 2018, she played a key role in organizing an international library science conference in Karachi, attended by representatives from IFLA and other global organizations. Her efforts helped raise the standard of Pakistan’s library professionals on an international level.
She has also contributed to the professional literature, writing research articles, travelogues, and essays for reputed journals like Pakistan Library and Information Science Journal and magazines such as Adab-o-Kutub Khana and Atraf. Additionally, she has served on editorial boards and newsletter panels, supporting the broader discourse in her field.
Family Legacy of Knowledge and Journalism
Rabiya’s passion for reading and writing stems from a family steeped in knowledge and literature. Her maternal granduncle, Syed Wilayat Hussain Shah, served in key roles at institutions like the British Council and National Library of Pakistan. Her relatives include prominent names in literature and journalism, such as the poet Imdad Nizami, columnist Anwar Faridi, and several others, including her father Irshad Faridi, a known figure in journalism.
Election to IFLA – A Landmark Achievement
Rabiya’s most recent accomplishment came in the form of her election to IFLA’s Asia-Oceania Regional Division Committee for the term 2025–2027. This appointment makes her the first Pakistani to be elected to this committee, a distinction that not only honors her dedication but elevates Pakistan’s status within the global library community.
Founded in 1927 and headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands, IFLA is the world’s leading body representing the interests of libraries and information services. With over 1,600 members from more than 150 countries, it plays a vital role in setting standards and promoting innovation in the field.
Through this role, Rabiya will help shape library policies and research trends across the Asia-Oceania region. She will also be part of global advocacy efforts in collaboration with bodies like the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP).
Global Contributions and Publications
Adding to her accolades, Rabiya has recently contributed to an international publication curated by a renowned British publishing house. The book includes insights from library professionals across the globe, with three Pakistani experts among the contributors, including Rabiya herself. The compilation was edited by Dr. Collins Chisita, a prominent library figure from Zimbabwe, and supported by leading professionals like Ikram ul haq from Riyadh Saudia Arabia
Conclusion: A Role Model for Generations
Rabiya Ali Faridi’s journey is one of resilience, passion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Her representation at IFLA is not just a personal achievement but a moment of pride for Pakistan’s academic and library sectors. As she steps onto the global platform, she carries with her the hopes and aspirations of a nation that believes in knowledge, service, and the power of books to transform societies.
