{"id":26992,"date":"2025-08-12T15:23:43","date_gmt":"2025-08-12T07:23:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/library.utm.my\/utmlibrarynews\/?p=26992"},"modified":"2025-08-13T08:49:12","modified_gmt":"2025-08-13T00:49:12","slug":"books-borders-beyond-utm-librarians-erasmus-in-spain","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/library.utm.my\/utmlibrarynews\/2025\/08\/12\/books-borders-beyond-utm-librarians-erasmus-in-spain\/","title":{"rendered":"Books, Borders & Beyond: UTM Librarian\u2019s Erasmus+ in Spain"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Erasmus+ Staff Mobility Programme is a prestigious initiative under the European Union\u2019s Erasmus+ framework that enables academic and administrative staff to participate in international teaching or training experiences. For Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Library, it opens doors to global collaboration, allowing librarians to share ideas, learn new practices, and build connections with international partners. By taking part, UTM Library staff not only enhance their professional competencies but also contribute to the university\u2019s internationalisation agenda and the enrichment of knowledge-sharing across borders.<\/p>\n

Earlier this month, Nor Shaliza Mohd Basarudin, a librarian from UTM Library, had the opportunity to join the International Week Program at the University of Huelva (UHU), Spain. The 5-day program starts from 30th<\/sup> June until 4th<\/sup> July 2025. The application for this programme was submitted in January 2025, and she received a congratulatory email from UTM International in February 2025 confirming her selection.<\/p>\n

Prior to the programme, a briefing session was conducted by the UTM International team in April 2025. During the session, it was announced that another representative from UTM, Dr. Aimi Sara Ismail from the Faculty of Built Environment and Surveying (FABU), would also be participating in the International Week. Both representatives had been corresponding via email with the coordinator from the UHU, Spain, regarding required documentation such as the acceptance letter and other related materials, including the funds. Once the funds were received, both representatives independently arranged their own travel itineraries, including flights, land transportation, and accommodation.<\/p>\n

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\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Among the participants joining the International Week Program at the University of\u00a0 Huelva, Spain<\/p><\/div>\n

\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/figcaption>The International Week (IW) kicks off with participant registration and a welcoming speech by Prof. Dr. Blanca Miedes Ugarte, Vice Rector for International Alliances at the UHU. A total of 24 participants from nine countries were selected to take part in the programme. The participating countries included Namibia, Jordan, Chile, Kosovo, United States of America (USA), T\u00fcrkiye, Senegal, Montenegro, and, of course, Malaysia. Namibia had the largest representation at the International Week, with a delegation of 10 participants \u2014 all from various departments at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), making it the most represented institution at the event.<\/figure>\n

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\u00a0Representing UTM, Dr. Aimi Sara Ismail (FABU) and Nor Shaliza Mohd Basarudin (UTM Library)<\/p><\/div>\n

\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/figcaption>The participants were later briefed on the programme itinerary by Dr. Grace McClintic and Lucia Romero Lopez. The International Week was thoughtfully structured by the UHU to include a variety of activities such as talks, presentations, campus tours, experience-sharing sessions, networking opportunities, guided city excursions, and cultural activities. The first day\u2019s activities concluded with a welcoming drink at El Desembarque de La R\u00eda<\/em>, located near Muelle del Tinto\u2014a historic wooden promenade pier that offers breathtaking views of the river, particularly a sunset, at 9.30 pm.<\/figure>\n

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\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0With the Spanish Dance instructor<\/p><\/div>\n


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On the second day, the programme continued with a one-hour Spanish language class followed by a Spanish dance lesson. During the language session, participants learned basic conversational phrases, including numbers, self-introductions, and how to order food \u2014 all useful for navigating daily life in Spain. The dance session introduced participants to the vibrant world of Flamenco, a passionate and expressive Spanish art form that blends singing (cante<\/em>), guitar playing (toque<\/em>), and dance (baile<\/em>). Originating from Andalusia, Flamenco is known for its rhythmic footwork, graceful hand movements, and deep emotional expression, rooted in Romani, Moorish, and Andalusian traditions. Despite the language barrier between the instructor and participants, the class was engaging, energetic, and thoroughly enjoyable.<\/p>\n

Next is the campus tour. The tour began with a visit to the Geology Museum, located within the Department of Earth Sciences at the Faculty of Experimental Sciences. The museum houses a fascinating permanent collection of minerals and fossils, displayed through a traditional museum showcase system. Its mineral collection features over 360 different species, including numerous rare and visually striking specimens, celebrated for their beauty and mineralogical significance.<\/p>\n

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\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0The Geology Museum\u00a0<\/p><\/div>\n

Following the museum visit, participants were taken to the ETSI (Escuela T\u00e9cnica Superior de Ingenier\u00eda<\/em>) \u2014 the School of Engineering \u2014 where they explored various laboratories and research facilities. The group was thoroughly impressed by the striking architecture of the building, which spans approximately 17,000\u202fm\u00b2 and serves as a dynamic academic space for nearly 3,000 engineering students.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The campus tour concluded with a visit to the Pedagogical Museum, situated at the Faculty of Education Sciences. The museum is divided into three main sections. The first, Old School Textbooks, features a collection of textbooks dating from 1776 to 1975, offering a glimpse into educational materials from different historical periods. The second section, Teaching Resources, showcases items from basic school kits alongside various teaching aids representing different subject areas such as Reading and Writing, Drawing, Weights and Measures, Arithmetic, Geometry, Natural Sciences, and Geography. The final section, Educational Environments, presents immersive displays that recreate historical learning spaces \u2014 including a school for girls, a rural teacher\u2019s workplace, and a period classroom \u2014 reflecting the evolution of schooling throughout the 20th century. As a librarian, the museum experience resonated deeply with Nor Shaliza, as both libraries and museums share a common mission: to preserve knowledge, inspire discovery, and support lifelong learning.<\/p>\n

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\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Replica of a classroom at the Pedagogical Museum<\/p><\/div>\n

\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0<\/em><\/figcaption>Afterward, the participants proceeded to the networking lunch, where they had the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations, exchange ideas, share professional experiences, and explore potential collaborations. The informal setting encouraged open dialogue and cross-cultural learning, fostering stronger connections among participants from diverse backgrounds. The networking lunch was, in fact, a daily activity throughout the International Week, offering continued opportunities for engagement and collaboration.<\/figure>\n

The third day commenced with a continuation of the Spanish language and dance classes. This was followed by one of the programme\u2019s key highlights \u2014 a presentation session where each university representative was given 10 minutes to introduce and showcase their institution. Nor Shaliza took the initiative to present UTM and the UTM Library, highlighting its achievements, services, and international collaborations. The presentations captivated the audience, with several participants \u2014 especially fellow librarians \u2014 expressing keen interest in visiting UTM in the future. The session concluded with the awarding of certificates to each representative in recognition of their participation.<\/p>\n

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\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Nor Shaliza is presenting about UTM and the UTM Library<\/p><\/div>\n

\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Certificates were given out to every participant after the presentations<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

Later that evening, participants were treated to a memorable two-hour boat ride, marking the final group activity before transitioning to individual programmes based on each participant\u2019s professional designation on the fourth day. The scenic journey covered key locations including the Huelva Estuary, Odiel Marshes, Columbian Places, and Punta Umbr\u00eda. As the boat gently cruised along the waters, participants had the chance to take in the breathtaking sunset views. The experience was made even more delightful with a light dinner served on board, featuring a selection of traditional tapas and drinks, creating the perfect atmosphere for reflection and relaxed conversation.<\/p>\n

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\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Breathtaking sunset at Punta Umbria<\/p><\/div>\n

On the fourth day of the programme, as part of the International Week activities, participants had the opportunity to visit the Biblioteca Universitaria<\/em> at the University of Huelva \u2014 an enlightening and rewarding experience, especially for the librarians in the group. The central Ibn Hazm Library, located at Campus El Carmen, serves as the heart of the university\u2019s library system, offering extensive resources and modern facilities. There were three librarians among the participants \u2014 from Malaysia, Namibia, and T\u00fcrkiye \u2014 and Mr. Juan Jos\u00e9 G\u00f3mez Boullosa, the International Office Coordinator, graciously took the time to give them a guided tour of the library. Ms. Isabel Lara D\u00edaz, Head of Library Services, also took the time to personally greet and welcome us, making the visit even more memorable.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Inside the Special Collection Room at the University of Huelva Library<\/p><\/div>\n

\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0<\/em><\/figcaption>What truly captivated Nor Shaliza was the library\u2019s Special Collections Rooms, which house an impressive array of rare and historical materials. These dedicated spaces contain old books, manuscripts, and other valuable print resources that reflect the academic and cultural legacy of the region. The collections are preserved in climate-controlled environments and presented with great care, underscoring the library\u2019s commitment to conservation and heritage. As a librarian, Nor Shaliza found deep inspiration in how the University of Huelva Library safeguards these treasures \u2014 reaffirming the shared mission of libraries and museums to preserve, celebrate, and transmit knowledge across generations.<\/figure>\n

 <\/p>\n

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\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0The librarians from the participating countries (From left: Namibia, Malaysia, T\u00fcrkiye)<\/p><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n<\/figcaption>In conclusion, participating in the Erasmus+ Staff Mobility Programme has been an enriching and transformative experience for Nor Shaliza and the UTM Library. Beyond personal and professional growth, the programme has fostered meaningful intercultural exchange and opened pathways for future collaborations with international partners. Through shared experiences, academic and non-academic dialogue, and mutual understanding, this initiative has strengthened UTM Library\u2019s role in the global academic landscape. It reaffirmed the importance of embracing internationalisation not only as a strategic goal but as a powerful means to build bridges of knowledge, inspire innovation, and promote inclusive learning across borders. The relationships forged, ideas exchanged, and practices observed during the International Week will undoubtedly influence and enhance the library\u2019s services back home \u2014 contributing to a more connected, responsive, and forward-looking academic library environment at UTM.<\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The Erasmus+ Staff Mobility Programme is a prestigious initiative under the European Union\u2019s Erasmus+ framework that enables academic and administrative staff to participate in international teaching or training experiences. For Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Library, it opens doors to global collaboration, allowing librarians to share ideas, learn new practices, and build connections with international partners. […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":180,"featured_media":27026,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[706,13,17,18,2,591],"tags":[1337,1338,1336],"class_list":["post-26992","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-course","category-latest-stories","category-roadshow","category-library-visits","category-news","category-utm-johor-bahru","tag-books","tag-borders-beyond-utm-librarians-erasmus-in-spain","tag-spain"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/library.utm.my\/utmlibrarynews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/26992","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/library.utm.my\/utmlibrarynews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/library.utm.my\/utmlibrarynews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/library.utm.my\/utmlibrarynews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/180"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/library.utm.my\/utmlibrarynews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=26992"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/library.utm.my\/utmlibrarynews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/26992\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/library.utm.my\/utmlibrarynews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/27026"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/library.utm.my\/utmlibrarynews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=26992"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/library.utm.my\/utmlibrarynews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=26992"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/library.utm.my\/utmlibrarynews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=26992"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}