Sharjah International Book Fair Hosts UNESCO World Book Capital Initiative To Promote Global Reading

The 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2025) recently featured a session titled ‘UNESCO World Book Capital Initiative’. This event brought together prominent figures from Sharjah and Athens to celebrate literature, reading, and cultural exchange. The discussion aimed to highlight these elements as vital tools for enhancing global connections.

Amna Al Mazmi, Director of the Kalimat Foundation for Children's Empowerment, moderated the session. She expressed pride in hosting such an impactful discussion. "Sharjah has always been a space where creativity and knowledge meet," Al Mazmi stated, underscoring the emirate’s dedication to education, literacy, and cultural dialogue.

Marwa Al Aqroubi, Project Lead of Sharjah World Book Capital 2019 and Executive Director of House of Wisdom, reflected on Sharjah’s cultural journey. She explained that being named UNESCO World Book Capital was a recognition of a century-long investment in libraries and education rather than creating its cultural identity. Al Aqroubi noted significant milestones like establishing the first library nearly a century ago and initiatives such as the Home Library project.

This project provided 42,366 Emirati households with fully equipped personal libraries—a first in the region. These efforts underscore Sharjah's commitment to fostering a culture of reading and knowledge sharing.

Anna Routsi, founding member of UNESCO’s World Book Capital Network and PEN Greece, shared insights on how the title revitalised Athens during economic challenges. She highlighted that the initiative made reading joyful and accessible by integrating literature with art, music, and cinema. This approach transformed reading into a social and cultural experience.

Routsi emphasised that the broader purpose of the title is to bring books to those with limited access. This initiative reinforces reading as a communal experience rather than just an individual activity.

Sustaining Cultural Impact

Both speakers agreed on the importance of sustaining the legacy of the World Book Capital title. Al Aqroubi detailed ongoing efforts in Sharjah, including new publishing projects and global partnerships. Humanitarian contributions like rebuilding libraries in Beirut and sending educational materials to schools in Guinea were also highlighted.

Routsi stressed collaboration among former World Book Capitals. She noted that this network connects cities to share experiences and support new applicants. This ensures that the cultural impact extends beyond just one year.

The session concluded with a shared sentiment: cities like Sharjah and Athens demonstrate that books are more than physical objects; they serve as foundations for societal connection.

With inputs from WAM