SHARJAH: H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has committed AED 4.5 million to expand Sharjah’s public and government library collections with the latest works from Arab and international publishers showcased at the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2024).
With over 2,500 publishers and exhibitors, SIBF 2024 celebrates a vast array of literature and knowledge. This grant demonstrates the Ruler of Sharjah’s dedication to advancing the book industry and promoting accessibility to knowledge for readers, students, and researchers across Sharjah and the UAE.
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By bolstering library resources, this initiative plays a key role in building a knowledge-driven society, contributing to Sharjah’s ongoing cultural development. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), highlighted the impact of the grant, saying, “The Ruler of Sharjah’s support enhances our efforts to elevate the publishing sector, bringing contemporary thought and knowledge into Sharjah’s public spaces. Updating library collections with recent scientific and intellectual works ensures our community remains informed and forward-thinking.”
Sheikha Bodour further emphasised that “Libraries hold a transformative role, shaping society’s direction both now and in the future. Sharjah’s commitment to expanding library resources and ensuring access to the latest international publications reflects a firm dedication to societal progress. This aligns with the work of publishers who amplify global knowledge by publishing and translating diverse perspectives. Sharjah International Book Fair stands as a thriving centre for the publishing industry, promoting growth across the literary world.”
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This annual grant not only enhances Sharjah’s libraries with thousands of new titles but also strengthens Sharjah’s global reputation as a knowledge-centric community, supporting research and enriching the cultural landscape both locally and internationally.
