Looking ahead at the smart libraries’ future, their spaces and their significance in the digital citizenship era
The National Library and Archives, in collaboration with TRENDS Research and Advisory, organized a seminar on smart libraries and digital citizenship

The National Library and Archives (NLA), in collaboration with TRENDS Research and Advisory, organized a seminar entitled "Smart Libraries and Digital Citizenship: Challenges of Foreseeing the Future of Smart Libraries" at the NLA booth at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2023.
The interest in smart libraries arises from being the main gateway to knowledge and culture. Libraries have started to go hi-tech to stay relevant in the digital age and to cope with rapid technological transformations.
Smart libraries that nurture creativity and collaboration are an integral part of sustainable green cities which meet the increasingly relying on advanced technologies needs of people. With the emergence of the concept of digital citizenship, libraries have become a highly important upgrading means to a conscious and educated society.
Mr. Hamad Slayem Al-Hamiri, Director of Research and Knowledge Services Department was the first speaker in the seminar. He explored the future of smart libraries and stated that the United Arab Emirates, under the directives of its wise leadership, ranks the first in the Arab world and the eighth in the world in government smart services.
He shed light on the three most important reasons behind public libraries transformation into smart libraries, namely government trends, the digital transformation of the city, and the needs of beneficiaries. He gave a profile of a smart library in a smart building, with a smart librarian. Such library also employs smart technology, provides smart services, and is visited by smart people.
The Director of Research and Knowledge Services Department concluded by pointing to the future aspirations of the National Library of the United Arab Emirates. He underscored the importance of fully equipping and supplying its building with technical solutions, such as the integrated automated system, the knowledge exploration system, and an integrated information portal.
Other aspirations include the launch of the Emirates Digital Library, the Digital Repository Project, and the UAE Bibliographic Agency.
Then, Mr. Hamad Al-Kaabi, Editor-in-Chief of Al-Ittihad newspaper, identified digital citizenship as a set of guidelines that nurture responsibility, awareness and wisdom when using technology. Afterwards, he pointed to smart libraries which, according to him, are a technological breakthrough promoting libraries to be more computer reliant. He indicated that this is a growing trend in the era of Artificial Intelligence with its various applications and added that such libraries meet users’ needs in the digital age. Using the model of Mohammed bin Rashid Library, Mr. Al-Kaabi provided accurate information about its form and content, which made it a remarkable contemporary library.
The editor-in-chief of Al-Ittihad newspaper talked about the launch of smart books globally in 2012, indicating that such books are now used worldwide serving knowledge and culture.
Finally, researcher and Professor Reem Al-Kindi, from TRENDS Research and Advisory spoke about smart libraries in the era of digital citizenship. She identified the conditions that led to the emergence of the digital citizenship concept in light of rapid technological developments. She noted that the digital age has a highly important impact on citizenship, as it pushes individuals closer to computers, the Internet, and smart devices.
She stressed the importance of digital literacy, digital decency, and digital legal responsibility, and then turned to the role of smart libraries in promoting digital citizenship.
After identifying smart libraries, she shed light on their components such as smart services, smart people, and smart governance which includes all compatible features. She emphasized the importance of the smart library building as well as the systems that make it among sustainable buildings, and the innovations that improve the quality of life.
She concluded by emphasizing the smart library role, which is to enhance the actual reality of virtual communities and contribute to creating a digital citizen who belongs more to his homeland.
It is noteworthy that Mohammed Khalfan Al-Sawafi, a writer and researcher, was the moderator of the seminar.

At its booth at Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2023, the National Library and Archives unveils its projects, publications and electronic services

The National Library and Archives (NLA) unveiled, at its booth at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2023, its services, publications, and its most prominent activities and events. It briefed visitors on the Congress of the International Council on Archives, its electronic services, and its most important and latest publications, which provide documented information to researchers and those interested in the history and heritage of the UAE and the Gulf region.
The National Library and Archives invited researchers, interested parties and young people to register and participate in the ICA Congress, the major archival event hosted by Abu Dhabi under the slogan "Enriching Knowledge Societies" from 9-13 October,2023. It pointed to its most prominent and important subthemes, primarily Peace and Tolerance. The second subtheme is Emerging Technologies: Electronic Records and Electronic Solutions. The third subtheme is Sustainable Knowledge, Sustainable Planet: Archives, Records and Climate Change. The fourth subtheme is Trust and Evidence, which are among the NLA’s priorities, while the fifth is Access and Memory, which emphasizes that archive is a right rather than a privilege.
At its booth, the National Library and Archives shed light on the most important electronic services it provides, such as requesting archival materials, national educational packages, diagnosing the status of government archives and the NLA’s publications. They also include requesting destruction of documents of government agencies’ archives, providing technical advice and scientific guidance in oral history and genealogy, organizing exhibitions of historical documents and photos, and publishing books, research and working papers concerned with history and heritage.
The National Library and Archives’ booth dedicated a special corner to sustainability, highlighting the interest of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the wise leadership that followed in his footsteps in protecting the environment and its resources. It also highlighted the UAE's interest in the agricultural and environmental renaissance and its aspirations to expand the area of vegetation cover since its establishment.
In addition to the historical photographs displayed in the NLA’s booth, which belong to its photo archive, the recent publications confirm the NLA’s interest in preserving and documenting the memory of the nation. The publications which attract those interested in the history and heritage of the UAE, include Zayed from Challenges to Union, Zayed and Heritage, Qasr Al Hosn, Thus Spoke Fatima bint Mubarak, Their memory, Our History, Um Kulthum in Abu Dhabi, Forts and castles in the United Arab Emirates, Memories of the Emirates, and several volumes of the Chronicles of the Sheikhs.

The National Library and Archives signed a memorandum of understanding with the Royal Documents Directorate in the Kingdom of Morocco
with the aim of enhancing cooperation and exchanging experience

 The National Library and Archives signed a memorandum of understanding with the Royal Documents Directorate of the Kingdom of Morocco aiming at strengthening mutual friendly ties and enhancing cooperation and experience exchange in the field of archives, as well as exploring various ways of preserving common cultural and historical heritage, developing cultural and scientific cooperation, coordinating joint work so both parties may achieve the highest quality standards and levels, and adopt the best practices in the archival and cultural fields.
The MOU was signed at the Royal Documents Directorate headquarters in Rabat in the presence of H.E. Al Asri Saeed Al Dhaheri, the UAE Ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco, by the Director General of the National Library and Archives, H.E. Abdulla Majed Al Ali, and H.E. Bahija Al-Simou, Director of Royal Documents Directorate in the Kingdom of Morocco.
On this occasion, His Excellency Abdulla Majed Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, said: "It is a great opportunity to enhance the cooperation ties between the National Library and Archives, and the Royal Documents Directorate, since both institutions share a genuine interest in collecting and preserving their nation’s memory, stemming from their heightened awareness of the importance of historical documents in civilizational progress, Nations and individuals’ rights’ preservation. The two institutions play a significant cultural role and serve as regional, Arab and international civilizational and cultural beacons."
He added: "This collaboration between the National Library and Archives and the Royal Documents Directorate reflect the close and distinguished historical relations between the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Morocco’s leaderships and people, that date back to the establishment of the UAE, supported by the vision of both the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and King Al-Hassan II. We hope that this memorandum shall serve as a foundation for fruitful and constructive bilateral cooperation in exchanging archival material, carrying out historical documents’ restoration, preservation, enhancing access and developing search mechanisms of common interest, for the best interest of researchers, specialists and all concerned and interested parties.
His Excellency stressed the important potential role which the Royal Documents Directorate can play in enriching joint UAE and Kingdom of Morocco’s cultural and artistic initiatives and activities.
His Excellency invited the Royal Documents Directorate to participate in the upcoming "International Council on Archives Congress", which will be hosted by Abu Dhabi from 9-13 October, 2023.
The Director General of the National Library and Archives thanked the UAE Embassy in the Kingdom of Morocco and all members of the diplomatic corps for their efforts and coordination preceding and leading to the signing of this memorandum.
In turn, Her Excellency Bahija Al-Simou, Director of the Royal Documents Directorate, said: "We are very pleased to cooperate with the National Library and Archives, and are highly optimistic about the signed memorandum which reflects both institutions’ keen interest in historical documents collection and preservation, and firm belief that documents constitute a key pillar and foundation for the memory of any nation, through their invaluable historical information on the history and heritage of these nations.
Her Excellency stressed that the history reflected through documents is really crucial, as it is closely related to the currently faced challenges, noting that both institutions share a keen interest in collecting and preserving the memory of the nation for future generations, and in allowing researchers access to it through digital portals that benefit all parties interested in the nations’ history and heritage. H.E. hailed the joint participation in special events that contribute to enriching the cultural field through distinguished and close UAE - Moroccan relations.
The MOU terms and provisions reflected the parties’ mutual agreement to exchange expertise, share information, conduct training programs, support experience exchange, and enhance cooperation in joint cultural activities such as workshops, training, archival and historical bulletins exchange, in addition to implementing joint projects of mutual interest relating to the field of Archives.
It should be noted that the memorandum was signed during the visit of National Library and Archives delegation, headed by His Excellency Abdulla Majed Al Ali, to the Royal Documents Directorate in Rabat, where the delegation members inspected the Royal Documents Directorate’s various sections, and were briefed on the historical documents adopted collection, preservation, digitization and access methods, and on the Royal Documents Directorate’s publications, the most important of which is the book entitled "Andalusia: History and Civilization", and its holdings of the oldest documents and manuscripts. At the end of the visit, the two parties exchanged publications and commemorative shields.

The National Library and Archives participates in Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2023

with events consistent with the Year of Sustainability and significant recent publications and cultural activities
The National Library and Archives participated in the 32nd edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center from 22-28 May, 2023, with various cultural events and educational activities at its platform where different groups appreciated, enjoyed and  benefited from the provided services. The NLA publications documenting the history and heritage of the UAE and the Gulf region greatly contributed to acquainting the public with the memory of the nation.
The National Library and Archives participating platform, introduced visitors to its latest books and publications, such as: the (Maritime Diaries), (Julfar and the North Coast in Portuguese Documents), (From Qasr Al Hosn to Qasr Al Watan: Art and Architecture) and (Coins Trade in the Arabian Gulf West Coast Emirates between 1929-1949) among other first edition books, books that have been translated into modern or living languages, and periodicals issued by the National Library and Archives, including the recent periodically issued Liwa Academic refereed Journal.
His Excellency Abdulla Majed Al Ali, Director General of the National Library and Archives, said: "The National Library and Archives’ keen and active annual participation in the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair constitutes a key cultural activity and event, in line with its objectives aiming at serving the community and disseminating cultural information, promoting public awareness about the history and heritage of the UAE and the Gulf region, and the leading role and great interest of the NLA in collecting and preserving the memory of the nation for future generations, in addition to other services provided within an integrated program including various specialized lectures and workshops.
H.E. added: the National Library and Archives enriched its platform with its recent publications which complement and enhance the memory of the nation documented in its earlier publications. The National Library and Archives platform hosts cultural events and activities of interest to its visitors, book-fair participants and all segments of society, during the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.
 This year, the National Library and Archives announced to its audience and invited them to the International Council on Archives (ICA), which is a major archival event that will be held in Abu Dhabi from 9-13 October, 2023, under the slogan: “Enriching Knowledge Societies”, which themes are consistent with the approach adopted by the leadership of the UAE, the tolerance and human coexistence oasis and role model.
The platform reflects the National Library and Archives’ interest in the Youth Council, and its keenness to provide a friendly stimulating environment for youth’s innovative and developmental ideas, to develop their leadership capabilities, and enhance their role in promoting archival culture.
The rich platform illustrates the Arabian Gulf Digital Archive continuous and successive development, and offered services including virtual exhibitions, and thousands of important displayed historical documents on the history of the UAE and the Gulf. This website’s rich historical content constitutes a significant source of academic and research studies, and its services are provided free of charge. It documents the Late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s achievements, especially since 1946, or the early days of his assumption of his duties as Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain, and chronicles his genius and relentless efforts along with his fellow Rulers of the Emirates, which eventually led to the establishment of the UAE and its unparalleled progress and development.
In line with its strategy, the National Library and Archives presented to visitors through its stand and the Book-fair main stage three lectures highlighting archival sources and their role in historical knowledge sustainability, and sustainability of  the founding builder’s approach. These and other lectures come in line with the current edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair’s focus on sustainability concept.
Throughout the Book-fair, the National Library and Archives platform hosted educational programs that reflected its keen interest in youth and future generations, in promoting the values of loyalty and belonging to the homeland and its wise leadership, and instilling civic education and national identity in them.
The program included over 35 fun, useful and informative children workshops including: "Let's Create", "Let's Read", "Let's Learn", "Let's Sing", "Let's Play", "Let's Remember", "Let's Color", etc....
Each workshop had its own themes and methods which attracted the exhibition’s visiting children. In this context, the National Library and Archives delivered 20 virtual workshops, and over 20 other workshops for school students.
The National Library and Archives platform provides visitors access to its digital pages and stories on the Google Arts and Culture platform, highlighting the UAE historical castles and forts, and the story of the "Memory of the  Nation" exhibition in which the National Library and Archives participated  at the Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival, and the story of the establishment of the UAE and its progress and development at the hands of the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his fellow Rulers of the Emirates, etc.

Photo captions:
1- The National Library and Archives participates in Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2023
2- National Library and Archives stand at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2023
3- The National Library and Archives

The National Library and Archives participated in the Sharjah Children's Reading Festival

 The National Library and Archives, in cooperation with the Emirates Foundation for School Education (Taleem), participated in the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival 2023 with a number of activities for children. The NLA’s participation was based on its role in promoting loyalty and belonging, establishing national identity, and instilling the principles of good citizenship in the hearts of generations. The NLA’s participation was also due to its belief in the importance of promoting a culture of reading and its sustainability for the coming generations and its importance in acquiring knowledge, which elevates children in order to contribute to building the future of the country.

The National Library and Archives participated in a variety of activities that were part of the festival. The NLA hosted students who were distinguished for their participation in the national reading and educational project (writers 71). Students talked about their success in passing the interviews, and mentioned their distinctive experiences. They also referred to the enhancement of their talents in literary writing leading to excellence, winning creative writing awards and reading their stories to the festival audience.

The distinguished students from (writers 71) were able to attract the attention of their peers. They gave them advice that would benefit them in their careers of literary and nonfiction writing. The most important piece of advice included the continuation of reading and writing on a daily basis.

Moreover, it is noteworthy to mention that the national project (writers 71), launched by the Emirates Foundation for School Education in cooperation with The National Library and Archives aims to perpetuate reading as a sustainable habit among young people and society, improve the skills of gifted students in writing and research, and put them on the tracks of  innovation. This national project was able to achieve the goal of discovering students with talents who deserve care and attention in order to be among the prominent writers in the future.

In addition, the National Library and Archives organized well-planned artistic and reading workshops on the NLA’s publications such as: (Zayed from Challenge to Union), and the NLA initiative’s publications such as (Zayed 100 Stories). At the festival, the National Library and Archives displayed educational cartoon films that enhanced children’s knowledge of domestic Emirati heritage, local etiquette and authentic traditions that shaped the identity of the community in the aftermath of passing down by the people of the Emirates, generation after generation. The NLA was keen to present these traditions in interesting ways through films of cartoon characters, which attracted the attention of children.

In its participation in the festival, the NLA assigned sufficient space to puppet theatre where children held in their hands small figures of cartoon characters (Hamad, Hessa, and Grandfather), moving them with their fingers while weaving and articulating interesting traditional stories putting them on the tongues of these characters. In order to enrich the information of children who visited the NLA’s platform, the NLA encouraged them to participate in the “march-game” created by the NLA and inspired by the biography of the founding leader, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The game is suitable for all ages and it aims to enhance the children’s knowledge of the history and heritage of the UAE.

Finally, it is noteworthy to mention that the NLA has developed an integrated educational system that aimed to direct the energies of students to targeted historical national programs, which contribute to the development of our society, build the student’s personality and strengthen the consolidation of national and ethical values as well as the lofty principles affirmed by our wise leadership. The National Library and Archives participated in this festival, characterized by positive and joyful atmosphere, and celebrated annually by Sharjah, the World Book Capital, as one of the most important family activities dedicated for children. It includes interactive, educational and entertainment activities that enrich the children’s knowledge and experiences and give them the opportunity to make new friends.

The National Library and Archives Participates in a Photo Exhibition That Documents the Role of Emirati Women in Geneva

The National Library and Archives is participating in an exhibition of historical photographs in Geneva that document the role and giving of the Emirati women, and their achievements in all fields and sectors. The exhibition was organized on the side lines of the participation of the General Women’s Union in presenting the 4th national report within the framework of the comprehensive international review of human rights at the Human Rights Council in Geneva.  
The participation of the National Library and Archives in this exhibition confirms its great interest in the Emirati woman and its efforts for documenting her noble history and distinguished experience, her role alongside her fellow the man in building the society, the support she received, the leaps she was able to achieve, and the important transformations through her participation in all fields. Thanks to the confidence and empowerment the founder and builder Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan has attached to women, who built the renaissance of Emirati women. Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan had been the prime supporter of women who enhanced their contribution to the affairs of the nation and its renaissance.
The National Library and Archives shows in the photos it displays in Geneva the unprecedented historical role and the systematic strategic planning established by Sheikh Zayed for the advancement and empowerment of Emirati women and their attainment of a distinguished position regionally and globally. They also reflect Sheikh Zayed’s wise vision of the reality of women - during his auspicious era - as mothers, wives, sisters and human beings with their own aspirations, rights, and duties, therefore Emirati women have been able to advance in thought, knowledge and action.
The photos also document the aspects of the great support provided by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, the “Mother of the Emirates”, President of the General Women’s Union, Supreme Chairperson of the Family Development Foundation and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood to advance Emirati women in particular and women all over the world in general. Her Highness spared no effort in the advancement and empowerment of Emirati women. Her Highness’ great care enabled Emirati women to reach a higher esteem position and made them a source of admiration for turning challenges into achievements.
It is noteworthy that the exhibition of historical photog organized by National Library and Archives was well received by a large audience of participants and visitors, and that the photos displayed were from the Photo Archive Section in the National Library and Archives, which keeps thousands of photos documenting the UAE’s renaissance at the hands of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Thanks to the efforts of the wise leadership that followed his approach in building the people and the places.

The National Library and Archives Participates in a Photo Exhibition That Documents the Role of Emirati Women in Geneva

The National Library and Archives is participating in an exhibition of historical photographs in Geneva that document the role and giving of the Emirati women, and their achievements in all fields and sectors. The exhibition was organized on the side lines of the participation of the General Women’s Union in presenting the 4th national report within the framework of the comprehensive international review of human rights at the Human Rights Council in Geneva.  
The participation of the National Library and Archives in this exhibition confirms its great interest in the Emirati woman and its efforts for documenting her noble history and distinguished experience, her role alongside her fellow the man in building the society, the support she received, the leaps she was able to achieve, and the important transformations through her participation in all fields. Thanks to the confidence and empowerment the founder and builder Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan has attached to women, who built the renaissance of Emirati women. Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan had been the prime supporter of women who enhanced their contribution to the affairs of the nation and its renaissance.
The National Library and Archives shows in the photos it displays in Geneva the unprecedented historical role and the systematic strategic planning established by Sheikh Zayed for the advancement and empowerment of Emirati women and their attainment of a distinguished position regionally and globally. They also reflect Sheikh Zayed’s wise vision of the reality of women - during his auspicious era - as mothers, wives, sisters and human beings with their own aspirations, rights, and duties, therefore Emirati women have been able to advance in thought, knowledge and action.
The photos also document the aspects of the great support provided by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, the “Mother of the Emirates”, President of the General Women’s Union, Supreme Chairperson of the Family Development Foundation and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood to advance Emirati women in particular and women all over the world in general. Her Highness spared no effort in the advancement and empowerment of Emirati women. Her Highness’ great care enabled Emirati women to reach a higher esteem position and made them a source of admiration for turning challenges into achievements.
It is noteworthy that the exhibition of historical photog organized by National Library and Archives was well received by a large audience of participants and visitors, and that the photos displayed were from the Photo Archive Section in the National Library and Archives, which keeps thousands of photos documenting the UAE’s renaissance at the hands of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Thanks to the efforts of the wise leadership that followed his approach in building the people and the places.

In the First Quarter of This Year
The National Library and Archives enriched the Oral History Archive with more than 20 Interviews

The National Library and Archives continues its interest in collecting oral history. In this regard, it conducted more than 20 interviews with narrators from senior citizens and residents in the first quarter of this year, in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras al-Khaimah, and Fujairah. The interviews conducted by experts and specialists in the Oral History Section reveal a large amount of important information with which a number of inspiring personalities from the people of the UAE have integrated the historical knowledge vision and the living memory that were added to the various historical documents kept by the Oral History Archive in the National Library and Archives.
The oral history interviews had been organized at the initiative of the people of the regions in which the interviews were conducted as the National Library and Archives is being a witness to the age and preserver of the nation’s memory, history and the information taken from the narrators who lived through the events. An eyewitness is seen as more credible than an earwitness. This contributes in gathering what historians did not publish in their writings about the history of the United Arab Emirates.
The National Library and Archives collected a lot of new information from the narrators’ memories. The information varied between social, economic, historical, scientific, political, town planning and region development, history and advancement of education ... and others.
Some of these interviews will be presented in the books that will be published in the future in: “Their Memory Our History” series, of which the National Library and Archives had already issued three distinct volumes. They have well received by a large audience from the researchers and those who are interested in the UAE history and heritage.

Honoring Employees with outstanding performance,
The National Library and Archives organizing a forum to review its future strategic plan

The National Library and Archives organized a forum to review the future strategic plan and the latest updates as well as its performance in 2022. The forum serves as an evaluation of the last year performance and preparation for starting the next stage with its new strategy, vision and mission, which show great interest in enriching and empowering knowledge communities, and which are in line with the UAE’s vision and future plans.
H.E. Abdulla Majed Al Ali, the NLA Director-General, began the forum by stressing the importance of redoubling efforts to cope with the aspirations of the next stage of the NLA’s march, developments and requirements, noting that lack of innovation, development and ability to keep pace with modernity will lead organizations to decline. He added that renewing strategies is a requirement.
His Excellency has highly appreciated the NLA’s achievements in 2022. He called on all employees to be aware of the great responsibility, which everyone has to assume with honesty and integrity, ensuring further development at various levels, more distinctive projects and achievement of objectives in the next stage. He emphasized that the NLA is in need of young talents and the accumulated experience of the teams members.
Furthermore, he pointed out that technology is the key driver for future work, and reliance on it will be doubled in order to communicate with clients as per the modern inputs. He also tackled the latest updates on the establishment of the NLA project and building of its collections and advanced facilities in order to serve as a cultural beacon that constitutes an addition to the UAE’s accomplishments.
The Strategic Planning Office at the NLA reviewed the main strategic objectives, future initiatives of the next-stage strategy, the HR strategy and its development, the NLA strategy development schedule, internal and external environment analysis stage methodology, current status analysis, benchmarking report, future trends analysis, etc.
At the end of the forum, departments directors, section heads and team members were honored for their outstanding performance in 2022.

In a seminar of its cultural season 2023
The National Library and Archives sheds light on the Past, Present and Future of Al Dhafra

The National Library and Archives organized a seminar entitled "A Reading of the History of Al Dhafra”, as part of its cultural season 2023. The participants expressed their admiration for the progress and prosperity witnessed by the Al Dhafra region since the accession of the late Founder and Builder Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan to the rule of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Many vital projects targeting the development of people and places were launched. Consequently, brilliant progress and sustainable development have become prominent features of the Al Dhafra region under the wise leadership.
The National Library and Archives’ interest in Al Dhafra Region emanates from its great role in documenting the glorious past of the UAE. It also stems from Al Dhafra’s significance in the history and heritage of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi because of its distinguished geographical location in the center of various civilizations. Today, Al Dhafra is a hub for various major projects.
Mr. Ali Ahmed Al Kindi Al Murar, a researcher in the history and heritage of Al Dhafra began the seminar which was held at the National Library and Archives’ headquarters, at the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Virtual Reality Hall. He referred to the keen interest of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, which led to its comprehensive renaissance arising from the numerous projects that made it increasingly lively.
Al Marar said that Al Dhafra is one of the largest regions of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, and it is the stronghold of the Bin Yas tribe. He addressed the past and present of the Al Dhafra region, pointing to the stages it went through and to the lifestyle and interests of its residents in the past. He also shed light on the full-scale attention it received from the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Ms. Asmaa Al Maamari from Mohamed bin Zayed University for Humanities reviewed the history of Al Dhafra in photos depicting its past, present, and future.  She indicated that Al Dhafra was special to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his interest in it inspired him to mention its regions in his poetry. She also pointed to the ancient references to the Al Dhafra region which came in the poetry of Rashid Alkhallawi and Almahedi bin Dhaher. She identified the location of Al Dhafra and its main areas, namely Al-Tuff and Baynouna, Al-Qafa and Al-Sahel, Al-Batinah and Liwa, Al-Hamra and Al-Maghreb "Western Ramla". She added that some areas belonged to Al-Dhafra in the past, such as Al-Majin, Al-Aqel, Sabkha Mati and Al-Kidn.
She touched on the historical roots of the Al Dhafra region, noting that some of its monuments date back to seven thousand years ago, adding that the world’s oldest pearl dating back to the Stone Age was discovered on Marawah Island.
Al Maamari pointed out the most prominent monuments of the Al Dhafra region, mainly the Al Dhafra Archaeological Fort and the Western Al Maryah Tower and others. She also touched on education in the past and present, and recalled the past of some Al Dhafra areas in contrast to their present-day reality. Besides, she spoke about the value and significance of palm trees to the people of Al Dhafra.
Al Maamari reckoned the most outstanding festivals and events that take place in Al Dhafra, such as Al Dhafra Festival for camel beauty, Liwa Date Festival, Liwa Agricultural Exhibition, Classic Cars Exhibition, and others.
The seminar was concluded with the presentation entitled "Al Dhafra  between the past, present and tomorrow" given by Mrs. Amna Al Marzouqi from  Al Dhafra Region Municipality. She reviewed the most important projects, and the development the region went through. She began the presentation with a documentary film featuring the successive visits the late Founder and Builder Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan paid to Al Dhafra indicating his genuine interest in the region and its residents.
It also featured the interest of the wise leadership that followed his approach in developing the area, creating gardens, and providing service facilities.  The modern Al Dhafra region has a distinguished road network with modern facilities which made it increasingly attractive to investors.  Al Dhafra and its regions are witnessing ongoing civil and service projects.
It is noteworthy that the National Library and Archives has published several books documenting the history and heritage of Al Dhafra, its location and regions, its castles and fortresses, its most important monuments and the lifestyle of its inhabitants throughout history. These publications loaded with documented historical and heritage information have attracted researchers and academics who are interested in the glorious history and heritage of the United Arab Emirates.

Praising the student submissions
The National Library and Archives continues to receive entries for the 13th edition of The Young Historian Award

The National Library and Archives continues to receive entries for the 13th edition of the Young Historian Award from the targeted school students. The organizing committee of the award has expressed its happiness with the distinguished student turnout for the award, and the submissions it received. The judging panel comprises specialists in UAE history, and it is scheduled to assess entries in the first and second week of next May.  
Commenting on the students’ participation in the award, Mr. Hamad Slayem Al Hamiri, Chairman of the Organizing Committee of the Young Historian Award, said that the National Library and Archives, in collaboration with its partners, aspires to continue the successful journey of the previous editions of the Young Historian Award. The award aims at promoting scientific research among students and motivating them to give heed to the glorious history and heritage of the United Arab Emirates.
He pointed out the inclusion of the subject of Sustainability in the United Arab Emirates to the topics of the award in line with declaration of 2023 as the year of sustainability in the United Arab Emirates by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, the UAE President. He added that, given the UAE track record of sustainability which involves building a prosperous future for generations, the NLA aspires to highlight sustainability issues,.
He stressed that the award aims to develop the skills of young people and encourage them to excel and explode their creativity in scientific and field research. He indicated that the NLA searched for student skills and innovative ideas which would enhance the current edition of the Young Historian Award and enrich knowledge as well as the scientific and research content, which distinguishes the award’s track record.
Al Hamiri added that the National Library and Archives will continue to receive submissions until the first week of May 2023. It aims to refine the influential ideas of young people, discover national student skills, enrich society with creative young competencies, push generations towards leadership, and enhance their scientific and research giving.
The award submissions will be judged in the second and third weeks of May 2023, and the announcement of the winners and the honoring ceremony will take place in the second week of June 2023.   Those wishing to  participate can learn more details about the 13th  edition and fill out the  entry form through visiting the website of the National Library and Archives: www.nla.ae, or via e-mail: YHA@nla.ae.
The winning entries will be documented in NLA’s refereed publications. Notably, the winning entries of the eighth and ninth editions of the Young Historian Award, for the years 2016-2017 and 2017-2018 were included in the recent publications to serve as a reference for researchers.
It is worth mentioning that the new edition of the Young Historian Award targets fifth to twelfth graders. The field of research writing is assigned to students of Cycle 3 from the ninth to the twelfth grades. Cycle 2 students (from grades 5 -8) are required to prepare reports on an aspect of social, economic or geographical life in the UAE.
The categories of the Young Historian Award 2023 are Oral History, Geographical History, Economic History, Social History, and Emirati Studies.
The 13th edition’s required reports shall  be either a ten-page report about a certain institution covering its history, development and role in  achieving the vision of the country, or a report summarizing a book translated from English into Arabic about the United Arab Emirates and expressing opinion .

Organizing more than 370 reading events and activities,
The National Library and Archives reaching out to more than 12 thousand beneficiaries through the Reading Month events

The National Library and Archives concluded the Reading Month with more than 370 events and activities, reaching out to 12,400 beneficiaries. This cultural and knowledge momentum is due to its belief that reading is the fundamental means to achieve sustainable knowledge development.
There were diverse events and activities including symposiums, exhibitions, knowledge programs, cultural competitions, book fairs, lectures and reading workshops, school trips, etc.
The NLA’s program was intensive and diverse in order to enhance the culture and sustainability of reading due to its vital role in broadening knowledge and enhancing the quality of life. In addition, the program is aimed to be in line with the national reading strategy and to contribute to the increase of the society members’ knowledge.
The NLA diversified the Reading Month events and emphasized the importance of reading and its sustainability in accordance with the announcement of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE President, that 2023 will be the Year of Sustainability in the UAE. It also aimed to maintain knowledge and culture development sustainability through its inspiring initiatives, efforts and strategies in this field.
The NLA’s events included a number of symposiums, most prominently the 6th Emirates Libraries Symposium under the theme of “Bright Examples of the UAE Libraries in 50 Years”, in which a large number of researchers, intellectuals and specialists participated. During the symposium, the NLA launched a survey that is the first of its kind about the UAE libraries, and it is carried out by experts and specialists in library science. They came up with a report and an analysis and description of the current status of the libraries in the UAE. The symposium included three specialized academic sessions.
In addition, the national Reading Month included several cultural seminars organized within the context of the NLA’s cultural seasons along with many internal educational visits and reading competitions that attracted a large number of participants.
The NLA participated in the book fair, organized by the Ministry of Culture of Youth, with community events for the Reading Month. A variety of publications of some organizations were provided for nominal prices to foster the culture of reading. The NLA has also organized an exhibition at the Spanish School. This is in addition to organizing a book fair in its headquarters to sell books to employees and visitors. Five publishing houses participated in this book fair, which lasted for three days and received more than 600 visitors. It coincided with three events that were held at the NLA’s headquarters.
In the same context, the NLA organized more than 370 workshops, benefiting more than 223 organizations. The reading marathon included over 100 events. The Reading Month festival included more than 30 events, 234 reading workshops, 4 cultural competitions and 12 workshops related to the “The Authors of the 71” initiative, which unleashes the students’ potentials and exceptional talents for literary writing as they are the homeland’s hope for the next fifty years.
The Reading Month had a big share in the community events, which the NLA participated in or organized in March.
To promote the Reading Month, the NLA joined the press conference held by the Ministry of Culture and Youth at Mohammed Bin Rashid Library where it announced its events and activities along with its participation with events in collaboration with Sharjah Media Corporation, Ministry of Culture and Youth platform and the NLA’s and partners’ social media platforms.