AED 2.5 million allocated to purchase books to enrich Sharjah Public Library

By Syamsiah Sahat

SHARJAH (United Arab Emirates), May 17 (Bernama) -- Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah Sheikh Dr. Sultan Muhammad Al Qasimi has ordered the allocation of AED 2.5 million to be directed towards the purchasing of books from the 139 publishers participating in the 13th edition of the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF).

The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) chairman Ahmed Al Ameri said this cultural initiative is observed annually to promote the emirate’s efforts to support the development of the global publishing industry.

“….as well as to ensure that young readers and knowledge seekers in particular who visit any of the six branches of the Sharjah Public Library (SPL) can enjoy access to creative and valuable content being produced globally in the field of children’s and young adult literature,” he said in a statement here today.

Furthermore he said the initiative also has been playing a key role in advancing SPL's mission to serve as a vibrant hub of knowledge and culture for all members of the UAE community.

Ahmed said every year, SPL received tremendous support from His Highness to expand and enrich its offerings, much like the regular watering of planted seeds that flourish into fruit-bearing trees that nourish community.

“In Sharjah’s case, the fruits borne by this initiative nourish people with knowledge and creativity, thereby advancing the emirate’s cultural project,” he added.

He pointed out libraries are the cornerstone of inclusive, sustainable and forward-looking societies.

“This annual initiative testifies to Sharjah’s unwavering commitment to investing in younger generations by empowering them with knowledge to advance their skills and realise their full potential,” he added.

SCRF, themed 'Create Creativity', features educational and entertainment activities as well as intellectual and cultural seminars. 

This year, the festival offers more than 1,900 activities, including 1,140 children's activities, 120 cultural activities and 130 artistic performances and theatre productions. 

-- BERNAMA