Please register to access this content.
To continue viewing the content you love, please sign in or create a new account
Dismiss
This content is for our paying subscribers only

UAE

Watch why the House of Wisdom library in Sharjah is an oasis for the mind

It’s home to countless books and also serves as a hub for cultural exchange and creativity



Video Credit: Gulf News

Sharjah: The House of Wisdom in Sharjah was conceptualised and purpose-built to transcend and transform the idea of a library.

Yes, it is a sanctuary for books – over 105,000 and counting – of course, but it also harbours an ambitious mandate to serve as a conduit between civilisations, cultures and the exchange of ideas.

His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the library, located near University City, in December 2020. It was commissioned as part of celebrations of Sharjah’s yearlong tenure as UNESCO World Book Capital 2019. As such, its North Garden is home to ‘The Scroll’ monument, designed by UK artist Gerry Judah, which pays tribute to Sharjah’s World Book Capital title.

The Scroll is popular with guests seeking to capture memories of their visit on camera
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News

Emirati researcher Nasser Akram, who is a regular patron at the House of Wisdom, recently presented a tour of the iconic structure and its varied attractions.

Advertisement
Nasser Akram at the House of Wisdom
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News

Since its launch, the two-storey facility has hosted events and conferences fostering art, culture and education, and will continue to play a pivotal role as a centre for cultural exchange, reading and research.

Seemingly never-ending columns of books pass through the library
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News

Inspired by the past, focused on the future

The iconic landmark (inspired by the original House of Wisdom in Baghdad of the 8th century) has another focus – innovation and creativity. It houses the Al Jazri digital fabrication lab with 3D printers to build prototypes of experimental projects. There’s even a ‘Book espresso machine’ which prints and binds books on demand in minutes, along with a digital self-service station.

read more

Advertisement

Boasting outdoor and indoor green areas, pools and fountains, and dedicated spaces for women, as well as for children (Little Reader), the House of Wisdom, which extends over 12,000 square meters, is akin to a retreat to replenish the mind, where readers can enjoy a book while relaxing in suspended pods.

Flora takes centre stage indoors at the House of Wisdom, serving as a pleasant retreat for readers and guests
Image Credit: Ahmed Ramzan/Gulf News

For networking, meetings and events, there are multipurpose spaces including Al Rasheed Hall, Al Ma’moun Exhibition and Al Khawarizmi Exhibition.

Advertisement