Qatar National Library (QNL) in Doha has established itself as a vital institution in the region, dedicated to preserving cultural heritage and promoting a love for learning within its diverse community. The library serves as a hub for education, research, and community engagement, offering a wide range of resources, innovative programs, and partnerships to achieve its goals. Tan Huism, the Executive Director of QNL, recently discussed the library’s journey and future aspirations, highlighting the evolution of QNL to meet the changing needs of the community.
One of the most popular services at QNL is the loaning of physical books, with members borrowing 3.1 million books since 2017, including 608,000 in 2023. In addition to book loans, the library offers access to millions of online resources such as e-books and e-journals. With over 29 million digital items downloaded and 4.3 million physical visits recorded since its opening, QNL has become a prominent learning hub for people of all ages. Huism emphasized the library’s inclusivity, catering to everyone from children to retirees through its diverse programs and collections.
QNL provides various services, including access to online resources, specialized libraries for children and heritage materials, and facilities like quiet study rooms and innovation stations. The library has hosted over 3,000 programs, attracting nearly 350,000 participants. Huism highlighted the impact of QNL’s programs on participants, with surveys showing that 96 percent gained new knowledge, 91 percent intended to implement changes based on what they learned, and 87 percent felt more confident in applying knowledge acquired from the library.
The library’s partnerships with local and international institutions play a vital role in achieving its goals of promoting knowledge and cultural understanding on a global scale. In 2023, QNL partnered with local schools to introduce over 8,000 students and teachers to its resources, offering children the opportunity to learn about creative writing and produce a book of short stories through the ‘Qalami’ program. QNL is dedicated to innovation and growth, expanding its digital collections and exploring the integration of artificial intelligence to enhance user experiences while preserving Qatar’s heritage and meeting the needs of its diverse communities.
Recognized for its achievements, QNL was chosen as the inaugural Middle East and North Africa Regional Office for the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) last year, a historic first for the Gulf region. As the library continues to evolve, it remains committed to enriching lives through knowledge and fostering a vibrant cultural ecosystem. QNL’s transformative journey and future ambitions reflect its commitment to serving as a valuable resource for education, research, and community engagement in Qatar and beyond.
