SHARJAH, 17th May, 2022 (WAM) — H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has ordered the allocation of AED2.5 million to be directed towards the purchasing of books from the 139 publishers participating in the 13th edition of the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF), organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA).
Envisioned and led by the Sharjah Ruler, this cultural initiative is observed annually to promote the emirate’s efforts to support the development of the global publishing industry, as well as to ensure that young readers and knowledge seekers in particular who visit any of the six branches of the Sharjah Public Library (SPL) are able to enjoy access to creative and valuable content being produced globally in the field of children’s and young adult’s literature.
Furthermore, the initiative has had a key role in advancing SPL’s mission to serve as a vibrant hub of knowledge and culture for all members of the UAE community.
Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, Chairman of SBA, said, “Every year, Sharjah Public Library receives tremendous support from the Sharjah Ruler to expand and enrich its offerings, much like the regular watering of planted seeds that flourish into fruit-bearing tress that nourish community. In Sharjah’s case, the fruits borne by this initiative nourish people with knowledge and creativity, thereby advancing the emirate’s cultural project.”
“Libraries are the cornerstone of inclusive, sustainable and forward-looking societies, and this annual initiative testifies to Sharjah’s unwavering commitment to investing in younger generations by empowering them with knowledge to advance their skills and realise their full potential,” he added.