The Qatar National Library has recently expanded its digital resources by adding over 1,500 new Arabic audiobook titles, signaling the Library’s commitment to promoting the Arabic language and catering to the linguistic preferences of its members. These new audiobooks can be accessed through the Library’s app, which has recorded over 100,000 checkouts since its launch a year ago, attracting nearly 6,500 new users in the first year.
Katia Medawar, the QNL Director of Research Learning, emphasized the Library’s dedication to offering a wide range of resources and services to meet the needs of its community members. This latest addition to the audiobook collection is part of QNL’s ongoing efforts to enrich its digital content, particularly in Arabic.
In addition to accessing e-books, audiobooks, magazines, and newsletters directly on their phones, members who download the Library’s app can also borrow printed books in 20 different languages instantly without the need to visit a self-checkout station. Furthermore, members gain access to a wealth of information on the Middle East and Qatar through the Library’s digital repository and Qatar Digital Library, which feature millions of digitized pages of archives, maps, manuscripts, audio recordings, photographs, and drawings.
The expansion of the Arabic audiobook collection not only provides additional content for literary enthusiasts but also increases accessibility for visually impaired members, aligning with QNL’s mission to eliminate barriers to knowledge and ensure equal access for all. With 56,000 downloads of the app and 100,000 checkouts, the Library’s digital resources continue to grow in popularity among its members.
The Qatar National Library’s ongoing efforts to enhance its digital offering reflect a commitment to meeting the diverse needs of its community members and providing access to a wide range of resources in multiple languages, particularly in Arabic. Through the app, members can access millions of online resources, including digital books, journals, and magazines, highlighting the Library’s dedication to promoting literacy and lifelong learning.
By continually expanding its digital resources and services, the Qatar National Library is ensuring that all members have access to a wealth of information, regardless of their linguistic preferences or accessibility needs. The addition of over 1,500 new Arabic audiobook titles is just one example of how QNL is working to enrich its digital collection and provide a valuable resource for its community members and literary enthusiasts.
