Specialized Arabic Journals in Library and Information Science and Their Role in Knowledge Impact

Abstract

Specialized Arabic journals in library and information science constitute the main channel for publishing scholarly contributions in the field, including research papers and studies. The article shows that, from the publication of the first journal, “Alam Al-Maktabat” in 1958, to the emergence of the most recent journal, Sharjah Journal of Library and Information, formerly issued under the title “Iqra,” the number of specialized Arabic journals has reached about 99 titles, including approximately 33 active journals. These journals are issued in several Arab countries, most notably Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, and Algeria, by professional associations, academic departments, institutes of library and information studies, library and information institutions, and research centers. Most journals now provide access to their contents through websites, and some are indexed in Arabic and non-Arabic databases. The article emphasizes that these journals have contributed, and continue to contribute, to knowledge impact by publishing research that supports the development of specialized knowledge, offers opportunities for researchers and practitioners, helps institutions address professional challenges, and disseminates best practices and modern technologies. It also calls for encouraging the publication of more specialized journals and for pursuing recognized impact measures in international databases.