SHARJAH: Under the directive of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi and the supervision of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Sharjah is commemorating Sharjah Public Libraries’ centennial, celebrating 100 years of cultural and intellectual contributions.

The festivities kick off on January 29 at Sharjah Fort (Al Hisn), marking a century since the UAE’s first public library was established in 1925 by Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi. Renamed Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL) in 2011, they have become integral to the emirate’s cultural identity, situated in the prestigious Cultural Square.

To celebrate this milestone, SPL has curated a year-long programme in collaboration with over 13 government entities. Centred on four themes—‘Literary Beginnings’, ‘Cultural Civilisation’, ‘Horizons of Literature and Poetry’, and ‘Cultural Sustainability’—the events will highlight SPL’s history, current impact, and future vision.

Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, lauded this milestone as a pivotal moment in Sharjah’s cultural journey. She emphasised the libraries’ role in empowering communities through knowledge and their contribution to Sharjah’s cultural renaissance.

“Libraries have been, and will always remain, the anchors of Sharjah’s cultural legacy, illuminating the path to a prosperous future,” she said, paying homage to the visionary efforts of past leaders who laid the foundation for SPL’s enduring legacy.

From its origins in Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi’s palace to its current home in Cultural Palace Square, SPL’s evolution reflects Sharjah’s dedication to knowledge. Each chapter in its journey represents a commitment to cultural sustainability, ensuring libraries remain pillars of learning and progress for future generations.