The Sharjah Public Library has celebrated 100 years officially, thus, a century-old public library of one of the most important cultural and educational institutions in the UAE. What started as a royal personal collection in 1925 has today grown to be a multipartite network of six branches, which altogether have a leading role in maintaining heritage and adopting modern technology. These 10 fascinating facts will make all the difference. Whether you are a fan of history, a school kid, or just a curious traveler, the Sharjah Public Library will take on a new dimension in your eyes.
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Top 10 Facts Every Visitor Should Know About Sharjah Public Library
1. A Royal Beginning
Sharjah Public Library began as a personal library of Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr within the premises of Al Hisn Fort. It was an exclusive treasure trove then—oh, so far away, out of the reach of the populace.
2. Six Branches, One Legacy
Started in small premises, the library now has six branches distributed around Sharjah and Khorfakkan. All these sites indicate the commitment of the emirate to easy learning.
3. Al Hisn Fort: The First Home
Al Hisn Fort was the political and cultural center of Sharjah before the rise of the modern skyline. The place of the first Sharjah Public Library was a citadel of knowledge long before malls and skyscrapers.
4. Name Evolution
This library was first known as Al Qasimia Library, but it adopted Sharjah Public Library as the library title that has become synonymous with the cultural identity of the emirate.
5. Guided by Four Rulers
Four leaders have lifted the cause of the library in the past 100 years. Today, led by Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Sharjah Public Library has thrived into an innovation and tradition center.
6. Bridging Past and Present
Centuries-old manuscripts are being paired here with state-of-the-art digital lending systems. Rent a hard-to-find book or eBook; Sharjah Public Library combines the past and present with ease.
7. More Than Just Books
It is also a bustling cultural hub with workshops in Arabic calligraphy, poetry nights, document restoration, and teaching classes. Art, heritage, and the community meet at the Sharjah Public Library.
8. A Year-Long Celebration
To celebrate its centennial, the library holds events throughout the year 2025 with over 13 cultural and government partners. Imagine art classes, narrative events, and literary nights.
9. A Rare Quran Manuscript
One of the most valuable objects that it possesses is the rare manuscript of the Quran that belonged to Caliph Uthman ibn Affan, which is of particular value to both history scholars and tourists.
10. A Digital Treasure Trove
The Sharjah Public Library has almost 6 million digital resources, including eBooks and academic research, in more than 10 languages, evidence that it is keeping up with the digital age without forgetting its history.
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The Sharjah Public Library never ceases to be a link between the past and the future, a hub of knowledge, a hub of culture, and a hub of community after 100 years. You can go to see its history, rare collections, or just visit the modern facilities. Whatever the reason is, this centennial celebration is the opportune moment to notice its lasting legacy.