The Professional Development Workshop on Library and Information Services (PDWL) 2025 Sharing Session provided a platform for participants to reflect on and share knowledge gained during their week-long professional learning experience in Malaysian libraries.

Organised collaboratively by the Faculty of Arts (FA), The Maldives National University (MNU), and the Maldives Library Association (MLA), the sharing session brought together participants and members of the library and information community to exchange experiences, professional insights, and practical knowledge gained through the PDWL 2025 programme.

During the session, participants shared their observations of innovative library practices, information services, professional approaches, and emerging developments observed during their professional visits in Malaysia. The presentations and discussions provided opportunities to consider how relevant practices and ideas could be adapted to the Maldivian context and applied within local library and information services.

The session also promoted reflective learning and peer-to-peer knowledge exchange, enabling participants to transfer their international learning to colleagues and the wider professional community. By sharing experiences beyond the original programme participants, the activity extended the reach and impact of the PDWL 2025 professional development initiative.

The knowledge-sharing component further contributed to continuous professional development and capacity strengthening within the library and information sector. It encouraged participants to engage in ongoing learning, expand professional networks, and consider new approaches to improving the quality and effectiveness of library and information services across the Maldives.

The sharing session also reinforced collaboration between MNU, the Maldives Library Association, library professionals, and the wider library and information community, demonstrating the value of professional partnerships in supporting knowledge exchange and the continued development of the sector.

The Professional Pathways: Lessons from PDWL 2025 sharing session contributed to SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting lifelong learning and knowledge exchange, SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through professional skills and capacity development, SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by extending professional learning opportunities and knowledge to the wider library community, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaboration between MNU, the Maldives Library Association, and the library and information community.