House Of Wisdom Engages With National Library Of France To Enhance Library Sciences Collaboration

The House of Wisdom (HoW) in Sharjah recently hosted Gilles Pécout, President of the National Library of France. The visit aimed to enhance institutional ties and promote knowledge exchange. Organised with the Department of Government Relations (DGR) in Sharjah, it coincided with the centennial celebrations of the Sharjah Public Library (SPL).

During the visit, discussions focused on expanding international collaborations in library sciences, cultural heritage preservation, and digital knowledge management. This event underscored Sharjah's role as a regional intellectual hub and its commitment to modern library models that blend research, technology, and social engagement.

The delegation toured HoW's facilities with Marwa Al Aqroubi, Executive Director of HoW. They visited key areas like the Wisdom Vault, which contains rare books and manuscripts. Among these are 646 historic French texts donated by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

Al Aqroubi commented on the significance of the visit: "The participation of leading historical libraries and cultural institutions from around the world in SPL’s centennial celebrations underscores Sharjah’s position as a global knowledge hub. It also highlights the essential role of libraries in fostering sustainable development."

The delegation also explored HoW's exhibition titled ‘Rumi: 750 Years of Absence... Eight Centuries of Presence.’ This exhibition features three sections with rare museum pieces that tell the story of Rumi's life and legacy. Additionally, Pécout met students from École Française Internationale de Sharjah visiting HoW.

Pécout expressed his admiration for HoW: "I am honoured to visit HoW and explore this exceptional cultural institution, which redefines the modern library experience by seamlessly integrating advanced knowledge resources with cutting-edge technology." He found the Rumi exhibition particularly inspiring.

Future Collaborations

Pécout noted that this visit marks a new chapter for collaboration between French National Library and Sharjah’s institutions. He emphasised potential partnerships in cultural, scientific, and academic exchanges. Such initiatives aim to strengthen cultural institutions' roles in promoting dialogue and knowledge sharing.

This visit highlighted Sharjah's dedication to fostering international cooperation in library sciences. By integrating technology with traditional resources, Sharjah continues to lead as a centre for intellectual growth and cultural exchange.

With inputs from WAM