Sharjah Public Libraries Celebrates Accessibility With Over 15 Million Digital Resources

In 2025, Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL) marks its 100th anniversary, symbolising cultural and intellectual excellence in the UAE and beyond. With a focus on preserving knowledge and encouraging innovation, SPL has become a leading cultural hub in the Middle East. It offers access to over 791,328 diverse resources, providing unmatched global knowledge in various formats.

SPL has always prioritised accessibility and knowledge preservation since its inception. Its collection includes rare manuscripts, books, audiovisual materials, Braille books, tapes, and videos. This extraordinary heritage serves both local and international communities. Today, SPL has embraced advanced technologies, evolving into a global platform with over 15 million digital resources.

The library's digital transformation includes e-books, audiobooks, journals, dissertations, and maps in more than 10 languages. SPL’s inclusivity is evident through offerings in 40 foreign languages alongside Arabic and English. This caters to a diverse audience of over 117 nationalities. The library's commitment to inclusivity extends to serving visually impaired individuals.

A specialised hall provides Braille books, e-books, and assistive devices for equal learning opportunities. These advancements highlight SPL’s mission to make knowledge accessible to all. SPL has also redefined the library experience with comprehensive digital services like electronic borrowing and membership registration.

One of SPL’s standout features is its rare manuscripts section containing 3,102 unique works. It houses 912 ancient books and manuscripts in five languages: Arabic, English, French, Persian, and German. Among these treasures is a historical copy of the Holy Quran believed to belong to Caliph Uthman ibn Affan.

This copy is a replica of one preserved in Istanbul’s Topkapi Palace Museum. To make these invaluable resources widely accessible, SPL developed a comprehensive digital database. Researchers can access historical manuscripts, books, maps, and documents from anywhere globally.

Advanced Services for Modern Needs

SPL offers advanced services like electronic borrowing and book returns designed for ease and efficiency. The introduction of 24/7 services such as drive-through book returns ensures resources are accessible whenever needed. Smart lockers further enhance convenience for users seeking quick access to library materials.

SPL's evolution into a global platform with over 15 million digital resources underscores its commitment to innovation. By embracing technology while preserving cultural heritage, SPL continues to be an essential resource for diverse communities worldwide.

With inputs from WAM