Sharjah Showcases Sustainable Cultural Model At World Book Capital Network Meeting

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, guided the Sharjah World Book Capital Office's involvement in the 6th World Book Capital Network (WBCN) meeting. This event took place in Strasbourg, the designated World Book Capital for 2024. The meeting gathered representatives from past, present, and future World Book Capitals, including Strasbourg Mayor Jeanne Barseghian.

Sharjah's participation underscored its dedication to promoting a global reading culture and sharing its experience in transforming its 2019 title into a sustainable cultural initiative. With Rio de Janeiro set to hold the title in 2025 and Rabat preparing for 2026, this meeting was crucial for the transition process among these cities.

Marwa Al Aqroubi, Project Lead of Sharjah World Book Capital 2019 and Executive Director of House of Wisdom, expressed that Sharjah's role in the WBCN signifies both a cultural duty and a moral obligation. She highlighted Sharjah’s continuous support for other cities by sharing insights gained from initiatives that have thrived beyond 2019.

"Our promise was to transform the title from a celebratory moment into a lasting evolution in our cultural landscape. Six years on, we’re proud to see those efforts expanding globally," said Al Aqroubi. She emphasised that WBCN provides valuable opportunities for mutual learning and stressed Sharjah’s belief in books as tools for cross-cultural communication.

During the meeting, Al Aqroubi discussed various initiatives led by Sharjah such as the Sharjah Libraries Centennial, the Sharjah Literature Festival, and the Sharjah Festival of African Literature. She also shared insights as part of the support committee for cities preparing for the title, offering guidance on nomination processes and project planning.

The WBCN is a UNESCO initiative aimed at supporting designated World Book Capitals through collaboration and dialogue. It focuses on positioning reading as a central element of community development and innovation. This network facilitates sharing best practices among member cities.

Foundation for Future Cooperation

In 2022, Sharjah hosted the inaugural WBCN meeting at the House of Wisdom. This event welcomed representatives from 16 cities and established a foundation for ongoing cooperation. It also helped define an operational framework for future interactions within the network.

The gathering marked an important step towards fostering global collaboration in promoting reading culture. It highlighted how cities can work together to enhance cultural projects that extend beyond their tenure as World Book Capitals.

With inputs from WAM