In an atmosphere brimming with creativity and knowledge, the public libraries of Sharjah are launching the “Summer Camp 2025” program from August 4 to 7. This initiative warmly welcomes children and teens across various library branches throughout the emirate, running from 9:30 AM to 1 PM under the theme “Journey into the World of Stories.” The program is designed to blend literary enjoyment with interactive experiences, aiming to instill a love for reading while nurturing life and creative skills among younger generations. With a focus on engaging storytelling, the Sharjah Libraries invite participants to explore their imaginations.
Comprehensive Reading Experience
The summer camp offers a well-rounded reading experience that emphasizes a selected story at each library, delving deeply into it over the span of four consecutive days. Each day features two meticulously designed activities that are directly linked to elements of the story, including characters, plot, events, settings, and values. Through artistic activities, theatrical performances, mind games, and interactive educational workshops, children and teens will ignite their imaginations and develop their expressive and comprehension skills while connecting literature to reality in enjoyable and innovative ways.
A Stimulating Environment Across Library Branches
The summer camp will be spread across all branches of Sharjah’s public libraries, with programs tailored to meet the needs and interests of different age groups, from children to teens. Libraries in Sharjah, Kalba, and Wadi Al Helo are targeting youths aged 14 to 18, while the libraries in Al Dhaid, Khorfakkan, and Dibba Al Hisn will cater to children aged 6 to 13.
Comprehensive Educational Goals and Quality Content
The objectives of the summer camp program focus on fostering a love of reading and literary exploration among children and teens, alongside integrating life skills into a storytelling framework. The program also seeks to enhance creativity and expressive abilities while promoting a culture of sustainability by utilizing recycled materials in some activities. It stands out by providing quality content that allows children to “live within the story,” enhancing their engagement with literary values and themes in a motivating and enjoyable environment.
Daily Themes Overflowing with Experience and Imagination
At Sharjah Public Library, teens will embark on a literary and intellectual journey through the story of “Robin Hood.” Participants will engage in activities such as retelling the story from different perspectives, conducting character trials, creating analytical podcasts, and organizing intellectual debates. These activities will bolster their research skills, audio presentation abilities, and teamwork.
Meanwhile, Al Dhaid Library will take children on a heritage maritime adventure with the story of “Dana’s Journey,” featuring workshops on making pearls, cultural presentations from a sea captain, and sea shanties. They will also screen a film about historical marine life and introduce characters mentioned in the story. This will be complemented by a play titled “Pearl Merchant,” where children will help craft a short script and act out its events.
Adventure and Heritage through “The Barracuda Treasure”
Kalba Library celebrates the world of pirates through the story of “The Barracuda Treasure,” where participants will create their own flags and compasses, design a treasure map, and craft a mysterious pirate mask. The program will culminate in a festive closing event that embodies the end of the journey, honoring the participants’ efforts and transforming the story they experienced into a symbolic moment that represents “finding the true treasure,” whether it be knowledge, experience, or artistic output.
In Khorfakkan, children will dive into adventures with “Buji,” engaging in theatrical storytelling and creative writing exercises. Dibba Al Hisn will explore the tale of “Shanq bin Anq” from Emirati heritage, connecting children to nature, values, and the mountainous environment through interactive activities. Meanwhile, Wadi Al Helo Library focuses on creativity and invention through the adventures of “Hamdan,” where participants will learn drawing, writing, music, and sustainable thinking.
The public libraries of Sharjah invite parents to register their children in this enriching program, which promises enjoyable experiences during the holiday, hones children’s talents, boosts their self-confidence, and opens new avenues for learning through storytelling, art, theater, and group interaction.
The program is offered free of charge to all participants; however, seats are limited, making early registration essential for those eager to join this imaginative and educational reading journey. Interested individuals can visit various branches of Sharjah’s public libraries for updates.