Doha, Qatar – 25 November 2024:
Qatar National Library (QNL) celebrated the nation’s rich cultural heritage by hosting the second edition of its seminar series, “Memory of Private Collections in Qatar.” The event took place with the esteemed presence of His Excellency Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs; His Excellency Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kawari, Minister of State and President of Qatar National Library; and Her Excellency Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khater, Minister of Education and Higher Education, along with distinguished guests and cultural leaders.
Preserving National Heritage
The series highlights the critical role of family libraries and private collections in preserving Qatar’s history, traditions, and cultural identity. The latest edition showcased the collections of Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Al-Mana and Sheikh Hamed bin Ahmed Al-Marwani, whose rare books and documents reflect Qatar’s scientific and cultural renaissance.
During the event, H.E. Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kawari emphasized the importance of family collections, stating:
“These collections fill narrative gaps in Qatar’s history and provide invaluable historical materials. They play a vital role in preserving the past and shaping the future by enriching knowledge and fostering national identity.”
Honoring Pioneers of Knowledge
One of the highlighted figures, Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Al-Mana, significantly contributed to Qatar’s educational foundation. He established the Al-Atharia School in 1915 and created an affiliated library to provide essential resources to students, marking a milestone in the country’s intellectual progress.
The event underscored QNL’s mission to safeguard private collections as part of the nation’s cultural legacy, ensuring they remain accessible to future generations.
Promoting Qatar’s Heritage
The seminar series is a testament to QNL’s commitment to preserving Qatar’s cultural treasures and showcasing the role of individuals in documenting the country’s history. Through these initiatives, QNL strengthens its position as a beacon of knowledge and a custodian of national heritage.
For more updates on QNL’s events and initiatives, visit Qatar National Library’s website.
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