Latest news with #SharjahPublicLibraries
Gulf Today
10 hours ago
- 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.
Time of India
01-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
Sharjah libraries' 100-year celebration reveals rare second century Hijri tax records, art, and more
Sharjah Public Libraries celebrates 100 years with talks on Islamic civilisation, rare texts, and calligraphy workshops/Representative Image As part of its centennial celebrations, Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL) hosted a cultural event titled "The Cultural Mission" , held at the Holy Quran Academy in collaboration with Al Qasimia University. The event blended scholarly discussion, literary heritage, and artistic traditions, reflecting SPL's enduring commitment to reviving Islamic knowledge and strengthening the intellectual and cultural role of libraries in the Arab world. Governance and Finance in Islamic Civilisation Dr. Nasser Al Falasi, Assistant Professor in the History Department at Zayed University, opened the session by exploring how governance evolved in Islamic civilisation. He focused on the Islamic financial system, highlighting its role in state prosperity and public welfare. He criticised some Orientalist historians for relying too heavily on Roman and Western models, which he said led to misinterpretations, especially regarding jizya, a tax levied on non-Muslims in Islamic states. Dr. Al Falasi explained that Islamic taxation was: Lighter and more equitable than Roman systems Offered exemptions for women, children, and the elderly Adapted to agricultural conditions, taxing only cultivated land Based on principles that allowed non-Muslims to thrive under protection without military service He also revealed that British historians later compiled rare Islamic tax records from the second century Hijri. These documents provide valuable insights into the real-world functioning of early Islamic fiscal policies. Literary Brilliance and Human Themes in Arab Heritage Dr. Abdul Hakim Al Anis, Scientific Expert at the Holy Quran Academy, presented a paper on the wit and wisdom of Arab literary heritage, celebrating the depth and variety of intellectual output in the Islamic world. He noted that early Arab scholars produced works covering: Science and philosophy Art and ethics Daily life and emotional reflection Examples included: Personal writings on hunger and grief Descriptions of the final moments of notable historical figures Humorous texts on ageing, health, and manners Dr. Al Anis highlighted that centuries-old works addressed modern themes like emotional well-being and social conduct, proving their relevance in today's academic discourse. He added that many of these texts now reside in major global libraries and continue to attract attention from researchers exploring i nterpersonal ethics and psychological insight in early Islamic thought. Honouring Islamic Art Through Hands-On Learning To complement the intellectual depth of the discussions, the event featured a workshop on Arabic calligraphy and Islamic ornamentation. Attendees explored the aesthetic richness of: Arabic lettering styles Geometric and floral patterns Cultural symbolism in art and script This interactive segment allowed participants to engage directly with Islamic visual culture, bringing together artistic expression and scholarly reflection in one integrated experience.
Gulf Today
01-07-2025
- Politics
- Gulf Today
Islamic taxes were lighter than Roman ones, says Sharjah panel
Sharjah: As part of its centennial celebrations, the Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL) organised a panel discussion titled "The Cultural Mission" at the Holy Qur'an Academy in Sharjah. Held in collaboration with the Holy Quran Academy and Al Qasimia University, the event was attended by Dr. Abdullah Khalaf Al Hosani, Secretary-General of the Holy Qur'an Academy, alongside a distinguished gathering of academics, intellectuals and university students. The session featured Dr. Nasser Al Falasi, Assistant Professor in the History Department at Zayed University, Dr. Abdul Hakim Al Anis, Scientific Expert at the Holy Qur'an Academy, and was moderated by Dr. Rashid Al Naqbi. The discussion formed part of SPL's broader efforts to revive Arab and Islamic knowledge traditions and to reinforce the role of libraries as essential cultural and intellectual hubs in society. The speakers presented a wide-ranging discussion that included a critical analysis of the development of governance in Islamic civilisation. They highlighted the fairness and superiority of its financial system compared to Western and Roman models, and shared anecdotes from the Arab literary tradition. The insights reflected the intellectual richness and humanistic depth of Muslim scholars, whose pioneering approaches in fields such as philosophy, health and sociology often preceded modern discourse. Governance in Islamic civilisation In the session, Dr. Nasser Al Falasi discussed the development of governance in Islamic civilisation, highlighting how the historian's perspective shapes the understanding of history. He stressed that the Islamic financial system played a key role in the prosperity of the Islamic state and criticised the reliance of some Orientalist scholars on Roman and Western sources, which has led to misinterpretations of Islamic taxation, particularly the jizya. He compared the Islamic and Roman financial systems, showing that Islamic taxes were significantly lighter. For example, annual tax rates under Islamic governance were much lower and more inclusive, with exemptions for women, children and older people. Unlike the Roman model, the Islamic system protected non-Muslims without obliging them to take part in military service. Dr. Al Falasi noted that some Western historians have recognised the jizya as a refined financial structure that supported public welfare and enabled non-Muslim communities to thrive economically. He also highlighted the Islamic approach's flexibility, which considered distance, hardship and agricultural conditions, applying tax only to cultivated land. He concluded with the discovery of early Islamic tax records from the second century Hijri, later compiled by a British historian, offering rare insights into the practical workings of Islamic fiscal policy. Wit and wisdom in Arab literary heritage On his part, Dr. Abdul Hakim Al Anis presented a paper exploring the wit and depth of Arab literary heritage, highlighting the intellectual vibrancy of Islamic civilisation. He added that Arab scholars produced a wide range of works covering science, art, philosophy and daily life, many of which are preserved in leading libraries around the world. He shared examples of unconventional texts, including historical accounts, reflections on human experiences such as hunger and grief, and writings that captured the final moments of prominent figures, noting that these works reveal that Arab scholars addressed themes often considered modern, centuries ago. Al Anis also discussed humorous and practical literature on topics, including health, ageing and social etiquette. Some of these writings have gained renewed interest in contemporary health and social studies, showing the lasting relevance of Islamic thought. He concluded that issues such as emotional well-being and interpersonal conduct, now widely discussed in modern literature, were deeply examined by early Arab thinkers, offering valuable insights that remain relevant today. The event also included a specialised workshop on Arabic calligraphy and Islamic ornamentation, giving participants the opportunity to explore the beauty and history of Islamic arts in an integrated setting that bridged thought and creativity.
