Qatar National Library (QNL) will be closed to the public until further notice "in the interests of the safety and well-being" of its patrons and staff.

While the library is closed, all borrowed items will be automatically renewed until further notice and no fines or penalties will apply during this time, the library has said.

"While you are not obligated to return items, you can still use the drive-through book drop on the road outside the library 24/7 and the automatic return station inside the library’s main entrance. Thin books, DVDs and CDs can be returned at an additional dedicated returns bin at the library’s main entrance. Our Online Resources remain accessible 24/7 wherever you are," the library explained on its website.

The decision to close the library was taken in view of the Covid-19 outbreak.

The library's extensive Online Resources remain available 24/7 for members everywhere. They offer free access to ebooks, journals, magazines and newspapers, opportunities to stream video and music, and books and online activities for children and young adults. The Qatar Digital Library and the Digital Repository are also accessible to all users.

"If you have any research, study, or general questions, please use 'Ask Our Librarians' service," the library told patrons. "The decision to close Qatar National Library has been made with your safety and health as our top priority, and we appreciate your understanding during this challenging time," it added.

Those with any questions should ask the same by using the form available at https://www.qnl.qa/en/forms/contact-form/3242

"We are also working on providing online alternatives to our events and programmes via digital platforms, so please continue to visit our website and follow us on social media for updates," the library said.


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