Dear esteemed colleagues,

It is a great honour to address you on this important occasion on behalf of the Vernadskyi National Library of Ukraine, as part of our global community of national libraries, united by shared values, professional dedication, and a deep belief in the transformative power of knowledge.

The Conference of Directors of National Libraries (CDNL) plays a truly strategic role in shaping the future of national libraries worldwide. It unites institutions that safeguard the intellectual and cultural memory of nations and ensures that knowledge and documentary heritage remain accessible to present and future generations. As a unique platform for dialogue and cooperation, CDNL enables us to respond jointly to the key challenges of our time, including digital transformation, the long-term preservation of documentary heritage, and the promotion of open, equitable access to information and knowledge. CDNL is not only a forum for professional exchange, but also an effective mechanism for collective action. Through this partnership, national libraries speak with a strong, shared voice in defence of cultural diversity, intellectual freedom, trustworthy information, and the values that underpin democratic and knowledge-based societies.

The election of Dr. Tomasz Makowski as Chair of CDNL represents an important and inspiring stage in the further strengthening of the Conference. His profound professional experience, intellectual leadership, and broad international outlook, together with his outstanding work at the National Library of Poland and consistent advocacy for innovation, cultural dialogue, and institutional cooperation, make him an exemplary figure within our professional community. His ability to unite people and ideas, to combine respect for tradition with a clear vision for the future, truly embodies the values on which CDNL stands. We are confident that under Dr. Tomasz Makowski guidance, CDNL will continue to develop as a strong, unifying network of cooperation and mutual trust – a forum where ideas are put into practice and where solidarity leads to meaningful and tangible results for national libraries worldwide.

For the Vernadskyi National Library of Ukraine, participation in the CDNL community is of particular importance. It offers not only a space for professional dialogue and exchange of experience, but also a profound sense of support, trust, and solidarity from colleagues worldwide. This spirit of partnership gives us strength to move forward in times of extraordinary challenges and reaffirms our shared commitment to protecting cultural and documentary heritage, safeguarding the integrity of knowledge, and fostering mutual understanding.

Today, as we welcome this new chapter in the history of CDNL, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Tomasz Makowski. We wish him every success, wisdom, and inspiration in leading the Conference toward new achievements, strengthening cooperation among national libraries, and advancing our common mission to preserve, share, and celebrate the world’s knowledge.