Sharjah Libraries Showcase 100 Years of Expertise
At the American Library Association conference in Chicago, Sharjah Libraries stand out as a model in the field of libraries and information, showcasing over a century of experience. Under the title “Sharjah Libraries Showcase 100 Years of Expertise,” the General Director of Sharjah Public Libraries, Iman Bushleibi, highlighted the importance of public libraries as spaces for knowledge and community interaction. Through this experience, Sharjah Libraries emphasize their vital role in promoting culture and knowledge in the United Arab Emirates, making them a unique model in the Arab world.
A Rich Cultural Experience
During the international session titled “Libraries and Book Fairs: Building a Reading Culture in the United Arab Emirates,” Bushleibi shed light on how to enhance programs and services to connect the community with books. She stressed the importance of aligning libraries with the needs of readers from all demographics and highlighted the cultural context in which libraries operate, under the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, who has made knowledge a key component of the emirate’s cultural and developmental project.
The History of Libraries in the UAE
Sharjah Libraries are considered one of the oldest knowledge institutions in the UAE, having been established in 1925, with its centenary celebration set for 2025. The network currently has six branches across Sharjah, housing over 827,000 printed books and references, along with 18.9 million digital materials in more than 40 languages, including services tailored for individuals with disabilities. This comprehensive diversity demonstrates how Sharjah Libraries showcase 100 years of expertise in providing knowledge to all segments of society.
Partnerships and Innovation
Bushleibi explained that the design of library services encompasses great inclusivity, providing opportunities for knowledge groups in multiple languages and fostering partnerships with cultural, academic, and community institutions to expand their presence. Programs are organized in museums, cultural centers, clubs, and community sites, aligning with their efforts to make Sharjah Libraries an integral part of the local cultural fabric.
Enhancing Future Collaboration
On the sidelines of the conference, Bushleibi engaged in professional discussions with library associations and companies, addressing ways to enhance collaboration and share expertise in information services and digital access. The meetings aimed to explore future partnership opportunities in program development and support innovation in the library sector, embodying the spirit of libraries that continually strive for advancement. Through these achievements, Sharjah Libraries reaffirm their status as a cornerstone in the field of knowledge, showcasing 100 years of expertise and aspirations for the future.