Latest news with #SharjahPublicLibraries
Sharjah 24
07-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
SPL Centennial: Journey of knowledge continues all year-long
In collaboration with over 13 government and cultural entities across the emirate, SPL will be launching a new series of creative and knowledge-focused events between August and December. The programme is designed to engage audiences of all ages and enhance awareness of libraries' role as active platforms for the production and exchange of knowledge. A strategic vision for the futuristic libraries Commenting on the upcoming events, Eman Bushulaibi, Director of Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL) said: 'SPL centennial marks a pivotal moment to highlight the essential role libraries play in shaping community awareness and driving cultural development. Through our comprehensive centennial program, we renew our commitment to transforming libraries into vibrant spaces for knowledge production and central hubs for dialogue, creativity, and being open to the future.' She added: 'We believe that libraries are more than book repositories that offer reading spaces. Libraries have become interactive institutions that contribute to human development. In this sense, we aim to promote cultural sustainability, expand community participation, and offer programs that inspire, motivate, and reinforce Sharjah's position as a permanent capital of culture and knowledge.' 'Songs of the Sea and Poetry' In August, SPL centennial celebration programme kicks off with a panel discussion titled 'Songs of the Sea and Poetry', exploring the aesthetics of classical Arabic poetry, literary criticism and rhetoric. The panel convenes three critics from different literary schools and eras. The event features live poetry readings by renowned poets and a musical performance of traditional sea songs by artist Humaid Al Zaabi, who will also exhibit a selection of his personal collections that reflect his deep connection to the sea environment. The August programme concludes with a session under 'Authors Under The Spotlight' series, which addresses remarkable creative experiences under the central theme 'Horizons of Literature and Poetry' featuring 'Kareem Ismail', whose participation highlights the rich diversity of Sharjah's literary landscape. 'From Ink to Poetry' September shifts the focus to poetry with a literary panel titled 'From Ink to Poetry', featuring three acclaimed poets to discuss their creative journeys, early beginnings, and the cultural and natural influences that shaped their poetic expertise. Each poet will address selected poems of their works, and reflect on the inspiring experiences behind each poem, giving the audience a deeper understanding of poems and their emotional and human manifestations. The event also includes a calligraphy workshop led by artist Ali Al Hammadi, who will artistically render selected poetic verses in Arabic calligraphy, adding a visual dimension to the text's aesthetics, and reflecting the role of letters and words in documenting poetry and boosting its expressive impact. 'Between Story and Craft' In October, SPL continues the activities under the 'Cultural Sustainability' central theme. with a session titled 'Between Story and Craft'. The session explores the pivotal role of palm trees in Emirati heritage and culture, addressing the stories of traditional crafts that rely on palm tree parts, such as papermaking and handmade goods. Speakers will delve into the history of palm trees as well as their significance as a symbol of life and generosity in the local environment, while also highlighting their environmental and economic benefits. The session comprises a workshop where participants will learn the basics of paper-handmaking using local natural materials. They will also create greeting cards, gift wrap, and bookmarks inspired by the UAE's native environment. Children's puppet theatre During November, a vibrant puppet theatre performance will be staged for children, offering cultural and heritage-based messages through an engaging and fun-filled approach. Through characters and storylines, young audiences will learn the importance of preserving heritage. Simple and powerful dialogues and scenes will foster cultural awareness and national identity. The event includes a creative workshop that will teach children the art of puppet design and production. Kids will take part in every step of the process, which will nurture their sense of innovation in a thrilling and interactive way. Hands-on workshops The centennial celebrations conclude in December with two creative workshops that fuse literature and art, offering participants an inclusive creative experience. In a workshop themed 'Through the Eyes of Literature', participants will explore the basics of creative photography and learn how to turn literary texts into photographs. The workshop includes both theoretical and practical sessions led by professional photographers and concludes with showcasing the artworks and discussing the results. In the 'Sound and Color' workshop, attendees will listen to audio clips from daily life, or poetry and music, then transform sounds into visual artworks that reflect their emotions and cultural perceptions, merging word, sound, and image into a creative artistic experience. The first half of 2025 marked a significant kickoff for SPL centennial celebrations. A wide range of activities saw a footfall of participants from across all community groups. Those events were structured around two central themes, namely: 'Literary Beginnings' and 'Cultural Civilisation', and included thought-provoking panels, interactive exhibitions, workshops, and 'Author Spotlight' sessions that hosted prominent authors, researchers, and cultural influencers.
Gulf Today
31-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Emerging Emirati poets reinvent poetic styles
As part of its centennial celebrations in July, Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL) hosted a literary evening titled 'Contemporary Poetry' at the House of Wisdom, Sharjah. The event brought together an audience of emerging and aspiring poets and cultural professionals to engage in dialogue around contemporary poetic expression and the evolving role of literature in Emirati society. Contemporary poetry and evolving expression The evening commenced with a panel discussion titled 'Horizons of Writers and Poets', featuring two young poets, Ahmed Bin Sulayem and Meera AlBusmait. The conversation explored how emerging Emirati voices are reimagining poetic expression by drawing on personal memory, cultural identity, and a deliberate departure from conventional forms to forge new creative directions. Ahmed Bin Sulayem, known for his free-form poetic style, shared insights into his approach to writing. He said: 'I write in complete freedom, refusing to confine myself to any predetermined form or convention. My words are shaped by the legacy of my heritage, by a deep pride in being Emirati, and by the stories of defiance, adventure, and resilience that echo through our history. I believe poetry is an act of truth-telling, and my truth carries the influence of every book I have ever read, every memory I have lived.' On her part, Meera AlBusmait, whose work blends traditional Arabic forms with contemporary English poetics, reflected on the personal nature of her writing journey, saying 'My writing began with a memory; an instinctive urge to capture what felt familiar yet was slipping away. As an Emirati woman shaped by a multicultural lens and a love for English literature, I find myself constantly blending the structure of traditional Arabic verse with the rebellion of contemporary Western poetry. When I face creative blocks, I return to rhyme, rhythm, and the comfort of classical form. But always, I push boundaries. Writing, for me, is a human act; a form of vulnerability and expression no machine can truly replicate. I write to reflect the beauty and complexity of who we are.' Themes of identity and memory in poetic performance The evening concluded with a live poetry recital, during which Ahmed Bin Sulayem and Meera AlBusmait were joined by fellow poets Shahd Thani, Mohammad Al Gaith, and Maryam AlShawab. Their readings explored themes of memory, identity, and belonging, drawing on childhood imagery, the symbolic resonance of the sea, the quiet persistence of cultural tradition, and the role of libraries and librarians. The gathering highlighted a new generation of Emirati poets who weave local dialects with global influences, reaffirming poetry's role as both a personal and collective medium of expression.
Gulf Today
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Sharjah Public Libraries Summer Camp invites children and teens
The Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL) has announced their Summer Camp Programme for 2025, taking place from August 4 to 7, inviting children and youth to take part in activities at all SPL branches from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM daily. Themed 'A Journey into the World of Stories,' the programme combines literary discovery with interactive experiences aimed at inspiring a love of reading while developing life skills and creative capabilities in younger generations. The Summer Camp is designed to deliver an immersive reading experience, centring on one selected story per library, and will be deeply explored over the four-day agenda. The programme features two captivating daily activities that will cover the story's characters, narrative, and valuable lessons. Through creative activities, theatrical performances, brain games, and interactive workshops, the programme aims to spark the imagination of participants, boost expression and comprehension skills, and connect literature with real life in fun, innovative ways. Taking place at all SPL branches, the Summer Camp will offer activities specially tailored to different age groups, from children to teens. At the Sharjah, Kalba, and Wadi Al Helo branches the programme will cater to 14–18 years; and at the Al Dhaid, Khorfakkan, and Dibba Al Hisn branches, they will host children 6–13 years. Daily themes The main Sharjah branch will offer youth a literary and intellectual adventure centred on the classic tale of 'Robin Hood,' and activities will include retelling the story from a new perspective, staging character trials, an interactive recording of a podcast, and lively debates; all designed to enhance research, presentation, and teamwork skills. Meanwhile, Al Dhaid Library will immerse children in a heritage-inspired maritime adventure with 'Dana's Journey,' featuring pearl-making workshops, a traditional display with a nukhatha (sea captain), sea songs, a historical marine film, and ending in a fun and collaborative play titled 'The Pearl Merchant'; where children will be involved with scripting and acting. Pirates and 'Boji,' the street dog Kalba Library will be celebrating the theme of pirates through 'The Treasure of Barracuda,' where participants will craft flags, compasses, treasure maps, and masks, culminating in a festive event symbolising the discovery of knowledge, experience, and artistic creation as the true treasures. Over at Khorfakkan Library, the adventures of 'Boji,' the famous Istanbul street dog known for his daily journeys across the city will unfold through theatrical tales and creative writing exercises. Dibba Al Hisn Library will present the Emirati folklore 'Shanaq Bin Anaq,' with nature-focused activities connecting children to environmental values and the mountainous setting. Finally, Wadi Al Helo Library will spark creativity and invention via the adventures of 'Hamdan,' teaching drawing, writing, music, and sustainable thinking. Registration details SPL invites parents to register their children in this enriching quality programme that provides a fun-filled summer break, hones children's talents, boosts their self-confidence, and opens new avenues for learning through stories, art, theatre, and group interaction. The programme is free of charge for all participants, but seats are limited, making pre-registration essential for those wishing to join this fun and educational journey.
Gulf Today
13-07-2025
- General
- Gulf Today
Sharjah Public Libraries bring 14 centuries of Arabic writing to life
As part of its centennial celebrations, Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL) launched 'The History of Letters and Movement' exhibition at Al Rahmaniyah Mall, which runs until July 20, in collaboration with the Holy Quran Academy in Sharjah. Tracing the development of Arabic script over fourteen centuries, the exhibition explores how abstract early forms evolved into one of the most intricate and expressive writing systems in the world. Open daily from 10am to 10pm, the exhibition provides visitors with an in-depth look at the milestones that have shaped Arabic writing, from the introduction of diacritical marks to the refinement of calligraphic styles. It highlights the script's transformation into a medium of knowledge and beauty, reaching its artistic and linguistic zenith in the Holy Quran. It underscores the enduring role of the script in preserving cultural identity and transmitting knowledge across generations. The exhibition highlights the pivotal milestones in the development of Arabic writing and the influential role of the Holy Quran in refining writing tools and improving pronunciation and reading accuracy. It underscores the Quran's significance as both a linguistic and aesthetic reference that contributed to the standardisation and development of the Arabic language. On display are rare manuscripts and artefacts from the Holy Quran Academy collection, reflecting the artistic diversity of Arabic calligraphy. They demonstrate how the written word became a tool for preserving heritage, language, and knowledge, as well as a mirror of the transformations in Arab and Islamic society and thought. Reflecting a broad cultural movement, Eman Bushulaibi, Director of SPL, said: 'The exhibition is part of SPL's ongoing efforts to introduce the public to the rich artistic and cultural heritage embedded in the evolution of Arabic writing, which played a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual and scientific renaissance of the Arab and Islamic world.' She continued: 'The development of Arabic script reflects a far-reaching cultural movement that enriched Arab and Islamic literature with some of the most remarkable manuscripts and texts, meticulously created by skilled scribes in eras that relied solely on the reed pen and inkwell. Despite the limited tools, they succeeded in building a legacy of knowledge that continues to be honoured today. We hope the exhibition provides visitors with a chance to contemplate this legacy and appreciate the enduring power of writing in preserving identity and conveying ideas across generations.' SPL invites residents and visitors of all ages to embark on a visual and cultural journey, exploring the evolution of the Arabic letter from stone inscriptions and manuscripts to printed books. The exhibition offers a meaningful encounter with a living linguistic heritage that continues to influence and shape contemporary Arab culture.
Gulf Insider
12-07-2025
- General
- Gulf Insider
Sharjah Public Libraries Launch Exhibition On Arabic Script Evolution
As part of its centennial celebrations, Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL) has launched an engaging exhibition titled 'The History of Letters and Movement', currently on display at Al Rahmaniyah Mall until 20 July. The exhibition is held in collaboration with the Holy Quran Academy in Sharjah and traces the evolution of Arabic script over 14 centuries — from early abstract forms to one of the most expressive writing systems in the world. Open daily from 10am to 10pm, the exhibition offers a deep dive into the milestones that have shaped Arabic writing, highlighting key developments such as the introduction of diacritical marks, refinement of calligraphic styles, and the script's elevation through its use in the Holy Quran. These transformations turned Arabic script into both a medium for knowledge transmission and a form of artistic expression, preserving cultural identity across generations. The exhibition underscores the pivotal role of the Holy Quran in standardising and enhancing the Arabic language. Through its linguistic precision and aesthetic excellence, the Quran has significantly influenced the tools of writing and pronunciation, helping Arabic evolve into a comprehensive and eloquent language. Rare manuscripts and artefacts from the Holy Quran Academy's collection are on display, showcasing the artistic diversity of Arabic calligraphy. These exhibits reveal how the written word has preserved heritage and served as a mirror of societal and intellectual shifts in the Arab and Islamic worlds. Eman Bushulaibi, Director of SPL, said: 'The exhibition is part of SPL's ongoing efforts to introduce the public to the rich artistic and cultural heritage embedded in Arabic writing. The development of Arabic script reflects a cultural movement that played a key role in the intellectual and scientific renaissance of the Arab and Islamic world.' She added that despite the limited tools available to early scribes — just reed pens and inkwells — they succeeded in creating a legacy of knowledge that continues to inspire. 'We hope visitors will reflect on this enduring power of writing and its vital role in preserving identity and sharing ideas across generations.' SPL encourages residents and visitors of all ages to explore the journey of the Arabic letter, from stone inscriptions to printed books, in this unique celebration of a living linguistic heritage.
