Qatar National Library to deliver an oil free future


QATAR’S new National Library has opened in Education City – an initiative from the Qatar Foun- dation for Education, Science and Community Development. The new library is part of the Gulf State’s transition from an oil dependent economy to one where knowledge and skills are central. The library’s aim is to support research and learning at all levels, while also offering a wide range of cultural services and activities. Its mission statement says Qatar Na-


December-January 2017/18


tional Library (QNL) will “spread knowl- edge, nurture imagination, cultivate creativity, and preserve the nation’s heri- tage for the future”, adding it will do this “by creating and sustaining an intuitive and trusted information environment in a culturally and technologically superior setting and by developing innovative programs and services.”


The library houses Qatar’s national collections, featuring rare and ancient manuscripts and books. It is also home to an extensive public library, which


includes more than 100,000 children’s books. Thousands of people have used the library since it opened last month, with more than 11,000 new members. Dr Sohair Wastawy, Executive Director of the library, said: “In just a few days, we have seen the power of QNL to bring together the community to learn, create, and engage with each other. We were eager to open QNL to the public, and seeing our visitors’ excitement shows just how important QNL is to the country and its people.”


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