A cultural progress

A first-class library will significantly add to our plan for deep knowledge development

A render of the future Mohammed bin Rashid library in Dubai

The Mohammed bin Rashid ­Library is every bibliophile’s dream: a huge and advanced facility that will be built in the shape of a book. But it’s expected to be even more than that.

As The National reported yesterday, the Dh1 billion library will serve as a cultural centre, as stated in a new decree issued by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai. It will include eight specialised libraries: for children's, youth, family, business, Arabic, global, modern and multimedia content. It will also be a place that supports writing and translation and promotes intellectual and cultural dialogue by hosting events and bringing thinkers together.

After appointing the management team, Sheikh Mohammed asked them to start assembling the content even before the building is ready. It is the content that will create a base for knowledge development and sharing. This is only one of a string of measures designed to leave a lasting legacy from the Year of Reading.