The National Library of Qatar (NLQ) organised a cultural seminar titled “The NLQ and its efforts in supporting education” as part of its cultural programme aimed at shedding light on its historical and pivotal role in enhancing the educational process.
It supports researchers and students, and provides sources of knowledge.
The seminar was attended by a group of prominent figures whose scientific and cultural journey was greatly influenced by NLQ. During the seminar, which was presented by media figure Hanan al-Emadi, HE Dr Mohammed Abdul Rahim Kafoud, former Minister of Education, and HE Dr Mohammed bin Saleh al-Sada, former Minister of Energy and Industry, spoke.
HE Dr Mohammed Kafoud, recalled his memories with NLQ, referring to its great role when he was a graduate student during the seventies. He said: “I remember this house in the seventies when I was a student, and at that time there were no cameras. So the library was the only refuge for researchers and students who spent long hours browsing references and benefiting from the treasures of knowledge it contained."
HE Dr Mohammed bin Saleh al-Sada, emphasised the historical symbolism that the NLQ carries, not only for Qatar, but for the entire Gulf states. He said: “The NLQ has a historical symbolism linked to Qatar and the Gulf states, and the reopening of the house in a new guise will add a lot to everyone.”
He added: “This house represents a special memory for every Qatari, as the area in which the house is located has always been an attractive educational environment. This is where students used to gather to study and research, which enhanced the spirit of learning among different generations.”
Researcher Ali Abdullah al-Fayyadh stressed that the NLQ has always been the first source for every student and researcher. He said: “It is the source for every reader and student, and it was the first national library in the Arabian Gulf. Its reopening reflects Qatar's commitment to developing the cultural scene and enhancing the role of libraries in society.”
The NLQ was recently opened after a comprehensive development process, aiming to enhance its role as a modern cultural and knowledge centre. It is now equipped with the latest technologies and services that meet the needs of readers and researchers. The library will also focus in the coming period on expanding its educational and cultural programmes, to be a beacon of science and knowledge in Qatar and the region.
From left: Hanan al-Emadi, HE Dr Mohammed Abdul Rahim Kafoud, HE Dr Mohammed bin Saleh al-Sada, and a section of the audience.
