Sharjah – His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has announced a significant financial commitment of AED 4.5 million (R21.55 million) dedicated to enhancing the offerings of public and government libraries across the Emirate.
This investment aims to procure an exciting selection of the latest works from both Arab and international publishers featured at the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2024).
Scheduled to bring together over 2,500 publishers and exhibitors over 12 days, the fair is showcasing a broad spectrum of literary and scholarly contributions, showcasing the vibrant tapestry of global literature.
This annual grant underscores Sheikh Dr. Sultan’s unwavering commitment to advancing the book industry and ensuring readers, students, and researchers across Sharjah and the wider UAE have access to a wealth of knowledge.
As public libraries stand as crucial pillars in the intellectual infrastructure of societies, this initiative is not only about enhancing collections but also about reinforcing the foundations of a knowledge-based community as part of Sharjah’s cultural renaissance.
Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, the Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), spoke on the importance of the Ruler’s grant, stating that the Ruler of Sharjah’s grant bolsters the ongoing efforts to elevate the publishing sector, bringing contemporary thought and knowledge into Sharjah’s public spaces.
“By updating library collections with current scientific and intellectual works, we ensure the community remains at the forefront of knowledge and innovation,” Al Qasimi said.
“Libraries wield transformative power, guiding the trajectory of society both in the present and into the future.
“Sharjah’s dedication to enhancing library resources and securing access to the latest international publications reflects a steadfast commitment to societal progress.”
This sentiment highlights the role of libraries as critical instruments in shaping cultural and educational landscapes.
Sharjah’s initiative aligns seamlessly with the essential work undertaken by publishers, who strive to expand the reach of global knowledge through their texts.
The Sharjah International Book Fair stands as a bustling hub that supports not only publishers but also bolsters the broader literary ecosystem, fostering advancements across the book industry.
This annual grant is expected to significantly enrich Sharjah’s public and private libraries with thousands of new titles.
By doing so, it will enhance the emirate’s status as a global hub for knowledge-driven communities – an initiative that catalyses research and enriches the literary landscape both locally and internationally.
