Six branches across the emirate bring together reading, science, technology, sustainability and the arts
Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL) is marking the start of the new academic year with 24 activities throughout September, extending learning beyond the classroom through hands-on experiences spanning science, technology, sustainability, literature and the arts.
24 activities across six libraries
The programme is spread across six libraries, with four activities at each of the Sharjah, Khorfakkan, Kalba, Al Dhaid, Dibba Al Hisn, and Wadi Al Helo branches, bringing learning opportunities to communities across the emirate.
The programme combines practical workshops, reading sessions, field visits, discussions and family activities for children, young adults, families, adults and senior citizens, reinforcing libraries as spaces for lifelong learning.
SPL’s main branch explores culture and sustainable tourism
SPL’s main branch begins its September programme with “Discover the World of Translation” on Thursday, September 3, at 4:00 pm, introducing participants to translation and its role in connecting languages and cultures.
On Sunday, September 13, at 10:00 am, “Our Family Stories” will use storytelling to strengthen family and community bonds, followed by “Journey to the Self – Naguib Mahfouz” on Sunday, September 27, at 10:00 am.
The branch concludes its programme on Wednesday, September 30, at 3:00 pm, with “Smile, You’re in Sharjah: A Community Adventure in Sustainable Tourism,” which will take participants to the vicinity of the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation for interactive activities and games exploring sustainable tourism and the protection of natural resources.
Khorfakkan branch combines creativity and nature
The Khorfakkan branch opens its programme with the women’s session “Breath and Tranquillity” on Wednesday, September 2, at 10:00 am.
On Tuesday, September 15, at 10:00 am, “Sustainable World” will take participants on a field visit to the Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre to learn about efforts to protect marine environments and biodiversity.
Combining learning with hands-on experience, “I Make it with Love” will teach participants how to prepare biscuits on Sunday, September 20, at 5:00 pm. The English-language activity is held in collaboration with In Mind Café.
The final activity in this branch takes place on Thursday, September 24, at 10:00 am with “Creative Pens,” hosting an author to celebrate their literary publications in collaboration with Shams Publishing House.
Kalba branch brings together reading, creativity and coding
The Kalba branch begins its programme with “Anime Kingdom” on Sunday, September 6, at 4:00 pm, introducing young adults to the world of animation.
On Thursday, September 10, at 10:00 am, the branch’s reading club will discuss “From the noise inside” by author Maryam Al Junaibi.
Senior citizens will have a dedicated programme, “The Golden Age Screen,” on Wednesday, September 16, at 4:00 pm, in collaboration with the Department of Social Services.
The branch concludes its programme with the digital-skills experience “Programming in the World of Darkness” on Tuesday, September 29, at 10:00 am.
Al Dhaid branch brings science, music and families together
The Al Dhaid branch began its programme with “The World of Fossils” on Tuesday, September 1, at 10:00 am, in collaboration with the Sharjah Natural History Museum, giving participants an opportunity to explore fossils and natural history.
On Thursday, September 10, at 10:00 am, “Open a Book… The Journey Begins” will turn reading into a shared experience centred on discussion and the exchange of ideas.
Children can discover music through “Our Little Melodies” on Sunday, September 20, at 5:00 pm.
On Wednesday, September 23, at 4:00 pm, “Mini Family Cooking Challenge” will bring children and a family member together at Tal Al Zafaran Park to prepare a simple meal, encouraging cooperation and creativity.
Dibba Al Hisn branch encourages practical and shared learning
The Dibba Al Hisn branch will host “Home Hydroponic Farming” on Tuesday, September 8, at 10:00 am, introducing young adults to growing plants without soil and exploring practical approaches to agriculture and sustainability.
On Monday, September 14, at 10:00 am, “My Life Experience” will take place at the Dibba Al Hisn Youth Centre, encouraging dialogue and the exchange of knowledge between generations.
Children are welcome to attend the storytelling and reading session of “Thumbelina” on Thursday, September 17, at 12:00 noon.
The branch concludes its programme with “Sculpting Structures,” a clay-modelling workshop, on Sunday, September 27 at 7:00 pm.
Wadi Al Helo branch connects creativity and family learning
The Wadi Al Helo branch begins its programme with “Bright Start,” a drawing and colouring activity at Wadi Al Helo School on Wednesday, September 9, at 10:00 am, connecting school and library learning through artistic expression.
On Thursday, September 17, at 10:00 am, the branch will discuss “Real Estate Move” by author Yahya Al Yasi, followed by the practical workshop “The nature of Knowledge and Creativity” on Tuesday, September 22 at 4:00 pm.
The programme concludes on Sunday, September 27, at 4:00 pm with “Family Is the Secret to Success,” featuring a young member of the community who will share their experience with young adults and highlight the role of families in supporting and motivating children.