Libraries are stewards of knowledge, highlight Sharjah and Kazakhstan

The House of Wisdom (HoW) has taken part in the 89th World Library and Information Congress in Kazakhstan, furthering its mission to promote knowledge exchange and strengthen intercultural dialogue.

Organised by the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), the congress was held in Astana from August 18 to 22 under the theme “Connecting Knowledge, Building the Future”, bringing together more than 3,500 experts and professionals from 120 countries.

On the sidelines of the event, the HoW delegation visited the National Archive and National Museum of Kazakhstan, exploring areas of collaboration in heritage preservation and knowledge documentation.

The visits aimed to deepen cultural ties between Sharjah and Astana while reaffirming the essential role of libraries and archives in supporting academic research and safeguarding collective memory.

HoW also took part in the “Arab Librarians Session”, hosted by IFLA’s Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa. Discussions focused on the role of community knowledge in empowering individuals and fostering socially resilient, knowledge-driven societies.

Speaking during the session, Marwa Al Aqroubi, Executive Director of HoW, introduced the Wisdom Vault project, a flagship initiative anchored in the rare and invaluable collection of the late Professor Richard Ettinghausen.

The archive, which includes more than 12,000 rare books and publications on Arab and Islamic art and architecture in over ten languages, was gifted to HoW by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah.

Al Aqroubi pointed out that the project later expanded to include digitising the collection and making it accessible through digital platforms, alongside curating the exhibition series titled ‘Chapters of Islamic Art’ and establishing a network of specialised vaults across Sharjah, including at Maraya Art Centre and Mleiha Archaeological Centre. Together, these efforts transformed the project into a living cultural initiative that spreads knowledge and redefines the role of libraries in the future.

At IFLA’s General Assembly, President Vicki McDonald paid tribute to Sheikh Sultan, lauding his pioneering advocacy for libraries and the pursuit of knowledge.

She fondly recalled her visit to HoW and her role in Sharjah’s centenary celebrations of its public libraries, an experience that illuminated the emirate’s remarkable stature on the world stage of culture and knowledge.

Driving sustainable cultural development

Commenting on the participation, Marwa Al Aqroubi said: “Kazakhstan, with its deep-rooted contributions to Islamic civilisation through figures like Al-Farabi, offers a fitting backdrop to reflect on the enduring role of libraries as stewards of knowledge and platforms for cultural exchange. Libraries have always played a central role in preserving heritage and advancing intellectual thought. This congress is a clear reminder that the future depends on open, inclusive access to knowledge and the continued exchange of ideas across borders.”

She added: “HoW’s participation in this event reflects Sharjah’s wider cultural vision, which continues to breathe new life into the legacy of Baghdad’s historic House of Wisdom. We are committed to opening pathways to knowledge through both traditional libraries and digital platforms. In embracing the congress theme, ‘Uniting Knowledge, Building the Future’, we reaffirm our dedication to empowering libraries as engines of cultural progress and sustainable development. They are not passive storehouses of information, but dynamic spaces that inspire generations, connect past with present, and help shape a more informed and interconnected future.”

HoW’s visit to Astana highlighted its cultural mission to promote intellectual exchange and reinforce its role as a bridge between civilisations. Its participation in the global congress reaffirmed its commitment to advancing sustainable cultural development, positioning libraries as spaces for creativity, research and innovation. The visit also expanded avenues for collaboration with international institutions, supporting both scholars and the wider public, while further strengthening Sharjah’s presence on the global cultural map.

According to a recent report, as part of its commitment to transforming summer into a season of learning, inspiration, and joy, House of Wisdom (HoW) in Sharjah is preparing to unveil an exciting new edition of its annual summer camp this July and August.

Following the overwhelming response and strong turnout witnessed last year, this year’s programme is set to deliver three dynamic camp experiences that seamlessly weave together technology, arts, and creative thinking within an environment designed to spark curiosity and encourage exploration.