Sharjah Ruler Joins Centennial Celebration of Sharjah Libraries

Photo : Sharjah Govt Media Bureau

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, was happy to talk about the special libraries in the emirate. He remembered Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, who started these libraries and worked hard for the community. He called him a wise and humble person who helped many people.

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The Ruler told a story about Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr. One day, a man brought spoiled meat to him. The man accidentally spilled blood on Sheikh Sultan’s clothes. But instead of getting angry, Sheikh Sultan stayed calm and told the guards not to punish the man. He even returned the man's money and advised him to be careful when buying meat. After that, he changed his clothes and continued sitting calmly, as if nothing had happened.

His Highness praised Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr for his wisdom and peaceful nature. He also shared how Sheikh Sultan cared deeply about books and reading. His Highness said that Sheikh Sultan had a big love for Nabati poetry, which is special and beautiful. He also said that he inherited Sheikh Sultan’s personal library, which is now part of Sharjah’s libraries.

Over the years, the library moved several times and is now located in the Cultural Square. His Highness said that the library is very important because it has helped many people, especially with the "Library in Every Home" program. This program ensures that everyone in Sharjah can have access to books.

His Highness also talked about how books are like good friends that can make you happy and teach you important lessons. He reminded everyone that libraries are important for culture and learning. Sadly, many people today are more interested in entertainment than knowledge.

The Ruler of Sharjah emphasized that this library is just the beginning of a long-lasting legacy. He thanked everyone who worked hard to keep the library alive and prayed for the person who started it.

He told the younger generation to keep learning, just like their ancestors did. They should read and study, as books have great power to help them grow.

The celebrations started with His Highness arriving at the Heart of Sharjah, where he was welcomed by traditional folk music and performances. A group of horse riders also joined in the celebration. His Highness was greeted by many important leaders, including the Crown Prince of Sharjah and the Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority.

His Highness then visited the house of Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, which is now a museum showing the life and work of Sheikh Sultan. After that, His Highness opened the Sharjah Education Museum, which is located in the old Al Qasimiya School, the first formal school in the UAE.

His Highness also saw a performance by Arabian horses at the Sharjah Fort Stables and watched a show that celebrated the traditions of the UAE and Oman. He then unveiled a plaque to mark the 100th anniversary of the Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi Library.

The celebrations will continue with more events in the coming year. Sharjah Libraries plans to hold special programs and workshops to honor the memory of Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi and his love for books and learning.

Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi started the first public library in Sharjah in 1925. Over the years, the library grew, and today, Sharjah Libraries has many branches that continue to help people learn and grow.