Sharjah Public Libraries Enhances Smart Knowledge Library With New Online Courses And Features

Sharjah Public Libraries (SPL) have revamped their Smart Knowledge Library platform, offering a variety of online professional and technical courses. These courses are led by renowned experts and are accessible on mobile devices. Participants can take short courses in Arabic and English, complete with interactive quizzes and instant certificates. The registration process is straightforward, featuring a quick video guide to help users enrol and maximise their learning experience.

The global shift towards digital learning is evident as more people turn to online platforms for education. In 2022, the e-learning market was valued at $399.3 billion and is projected to surpass $1 trillion by 2033. Libraries have also seen an increase in digital service usage, with a report for 2024 noting an 11% rise compared to the previous year, highlighting the growing importance of virtual libraries.

Sharjah Libraries have embraced this trend by continuing to offer online workshops and meetings, reaching audiences beyond physical visitors. This aligns with UNESCO's recognition of digital innovation as crucial for achieving "Education for All," encouraging self-directed learning outside traditional classrooms.

The Smart Knowledge Library aligns with Sharjah's cultural vision of becoming a global centre for culture that values both books and digital knowledge. By providing courses in Arabic and English, it promotes reading and self-learning across all ages, integrating digital culture into everyday life and supporting community development.

Additionally, the platform aids local cultural industries by teaching skills needed for high-quality content creation in publishing, translation, and digital media. This enhances Sharjah's cultural impact locally and internationally, making culture an integral part of daily life rather than an occasional pursuit.

During the COVID-19 lockdown, SPL made over 15 million digital resources available online. In 2021, they launched the Smart Knowledge Library to offer free courses aimed at enhancing professional and digital skills. This initiative highlights SPL's commitment to community development beyond just lending books.

Blending Tradition with Technology

As Sharjah Libraries celebrate their centenary, they operate six branches serving around 200,000 readers annually in 33 languages. The blend of traditional library architecture with modern technology creates a model that can inspire other libraries in the region.

By combining physical books with digital resources, SPL fosters lifelong learning from individual curiosity. With technology at its core, the library becomes more than just a reading space; it becomes a lasting partner in personal growth and community development.

The Smart Knowledge Library supports Sharjah's broader cultural vision by promoting reading and self-learning among people of all ages. It reflects the emirate's ambition to be a global centre for culture that values books while embracing digital knowledge as key components of building a knowledgeable society.

With inputs from WAM