Libraries In Qatar: Which Are The Top Picks For Bookaholics?

Despite the change in technology and internet, libraries in Qatar are still one of its treasures that are preserved and maintained for the public use. Be it the educational center, museum or any other possible area that experiences a major footfall, these libraries shave managed to engage and entertain crowd with their massive collection of education books, novels, the historical data, manuscripts and so more. Adding them to the list of Qatar’s significant attraction won’t be wrong as one can discover every detail of its past and present under one roof.

But hang on, not all's lost, is it?

Qatar Public Libraries, Taking You On Back to The Era

Being one of the finest countries around the world, Qatar still understands the value of books, and the national library in Qatar is a fascinating example of that. Since the opening of the Qatar National Library in 2017, there have been approximately 835,841 books borrowed. In fact, the number may even be higher considering these are the figures of 2018.

So, it isn't difficult to understand the importance of books that the people living in Qatar have understood over time.

Today, the nation houses a range of libraries that have a vast collection of books from various categories. So, if you're a book lover who wants to explore the various public libraries in Qatar, we have compiled a detailed list of some top libraries where a bookaholic should certainly visit.

Top 13 Public Libraries In Qatar To Explore A Vast Collection Of Books

Fancy reading a book or two? Qatar has many top libraries where you should certainly visit. Below listed are some of the finest libraries in the country.

1. Qatar National Library

A state-of-the-art facility nestled in an iconic location in Doha, the Qatar National Library is a perfect spot for book lovers and probably the best of all in Qatar. The library boasts of over 500,000 e-books, special collections, periodicals, newspapers and so much more. For individuals who like to play with a range of subjects, the national library has a vast collection of online resources too which are perfect for all age groups.

In fact, if you're bringing your little one with you, there is a separate space dedicated to only children that range with a range of subjects. Children can find books related to fiction, non-fiction, education, graphics, and much more. There are enough books from all categories to keep your child occupied for long.

Besides, some additional facilities that the National Library of Qatar offers for children include -

1. There is a range of educational and exciting toys that children can pick from and stay occupied for hours.
2. Study rooms and computer labs have been provided for older children alongside youth clubs and homework support.
3. While there are special talks, seminars, and workshops organized for adults, the same facility is available for children too.

Location - Doha, Qatar

Timings -

Saturday to Thursday: 8 am - 8 pm

Fridays: 4 pm - 8 pm

Interesting Fact: - 7th November 2017 was when the library was inaugurated. On 16 April 2018, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani placed the millionth book on the library’s bookshelf.

2. 'Museum Of Islamic Art' Library

With an amazing 21,000 books collection in Arabic, English, and other languages, the Museum of Islamic Art Library is another fine place you would love to visit. The place has one of the largest collections of books on Islamic Art in the region which makes it even more special. Some of the notable books include - monographs on Islamic Art, Art Reference Books, Museum Collection and Exhibition catalogs, scholarly periodicals, and much more.

Interestingly, this Doha library even has a vast collection of 2000 rare books in English and Arabic which are not available anywhere else in the world.

Even if you're bringing your child with you, the library offers a range of books for children. This includes stories, art history, culture, science, and much more.

The best part? Many books at the MIA library in Doha have been digitized and visitors can view them via the library catalog.

Location - Level 1, Education Centre, Museum of Islamic Art, Corniche Street, Doha, Qatar

Timings -

Sunday to Wednesday: 9 am - 7 pm

Thursday: 9 am - 3 pm

Saturday: 12 pm - 7 pm

Note: - The books available at the Museum of Islamic Art Library cannot be borrowed or taken out of the library.

3. Maktaba Qatar

Now here's a thing, when you think of a library, what is the first thing that comes to your mind? Books, and a silent space? Well, Maktaba Qatar isn't a traditional library in Doha, Qatar, by any means. This is a space where you can find parents reading to their children, kids engaging in crafting, experimenting, and engineering.

What do you think of it? Well, it's different by all means. But hang on, is that all?

Move out a little and you'd be surprised by what Maktaba Qatar offers. The library even has an outdoor community garden which is used for outdoor playing amongst children. In fact, the community garden is a major attraction amongst kids during the months of October to April. This is a period when temperatures are mild and children can enjoy playing outside.

Besides, children engage in activities like harvesting vegetables, herbs, flowers, and much more. There is a weekly Garden Club that helps the children build up that connection with nature.

So, if you're wondering about visiting a library in Doha that is much different from the traditional libraries we find, Maktaba Qatar is the place for you.

Location - Al Mabahej and Saha 33, Al Mabahej, Doha, Qatar

Timings - Sunday to Thursday: 9 am – 5 pm

4. Al Rayyan Public Library

One of the best places to visit in Qatar for a fascinating collection of books, the Al Rayyan Public Library includes about 36,000 books which are available in both Arabic and English. While visitors coming to the library can lend in books, there are a variety of information resources that are offered as well.

In fact, the Al Rayyan Public Library aims to conduct cultural activities and lectures on certain days which are not to be missed by travelers. Likewise, the public library in Doha also offers school day trips which are generally considered great for the students as they get to know the importance a library carries.

Location - Al-Rayyan Al-Qadeem, Doha, Qatar

Timings - Sunday to Thursday: 7 am – 2 pm & 4 pm - 6 pm

Suggested Read: Discover What Makes Qatar Education City Ideal For Receiving An Education Degree

5. Mathaf Library

Are you someone who has an interest in modern and contemporary art? Well, the Mathaf library is the place for you. One of the finest public libraries in Qatar where visitors can see a fascinating collection, the Mathaf Library houses a collection of books and publications on general art history, modern art, and the history of art where special focus is laid on the Arab world.

With over 7000 books and works of art around the space, this is a library that forms a perfect place for quiet study and research. So, visit the Mathaf Museum of Modern Art and spend time in its library reading the finest of books.

Location - Education City, Doha, Qatar

Timings - Sunday to Thursday: 7:30 am – 3 pm

6. AlKhansa Public Library

One library that deserves a special mention in the list is the AlKhansa Public Library. The first women's library in Qatar that was established in 1981, the AlKhansa houses around 42,934 books which are available in Arabic. Out of the whole collection, around 5,091 books are available in English here.

While providing a range of informational resources to visitors coming here, the library also provides a perfect setting for readers to sit and enjoy their favorite books.

Location - D-Ring Road, Doha, Qatar

Timings - Sunday to Thursday: 7 am – 2 pm

7. Dar al-Kutub al-Qatariyya

One of the oldest national libraries in the Gulf and Arab World, Dar al-Kutub al-Qatariyya is regarded as one of the most important cultural landmarks in Qatar. Established in 1962, Dar al-Kutub al-Qatariyya was formed by merging a public library with the library of the Ministry of al-Ma'arif.

For those who wish to read some amazing books, the library has a vast collection of books amounting to 319,478. In fact, there are a range of books at Dar al-Kutub al-Qatariyya that range from Islamic texts to hadith, ancient history, geography and so much more.

Prefer reading in English? Dar al-Kutub al-Qatariyya has you covered. The oldest Public library in Qatar features a small collection of English books which range from contemporary, fiction, and non-fiction books. One can even find books related to international relations, medicine, and other such subjects. So what's the delay? The library even has a rare collection of books that you may find interesting. So visit Dar al-Kutub al-Qatariyya and explore the amazing collection today.

Location - Ras Abu Aboud Street, Dawar Dar Al Kutub, Al-Ghanim Al-Qadem, Doha, Qatar

Timings - Sunday to Thursday: 7 am – 2 pm & 4 pm - 6 pm

8. Al Wakrah Public Library

Established in 1985, the Al Wakrah Public Library has a collection of around 37,205 books in Arabic while the library features around 2,728 books in English. Nestled in the historical hamlet of Qatar, a city that is widely famous for its Pearl Industry, the Al Wakrah Public Library even has a range of historical books that throw light into the deep history of the country.

By offering school visits, cultural activities, lectures, and its amazing collection of books, the library ensures a fascinating time for visitors.

Location - Al Wakrah, Qatar

Timings - Sunday to Thursday: 7 am – 2 pm

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Al Wakrah, Qatar: Fascinating And Exciting Activities For An Amazing Vacation

9. Al Shamal Public Library

Located in the northern tip of Qatar in Al Shamal, The Public library in Qatar is regarded as one of the best places to visit in the region and was established in 1979. The library has a book collection of 60,726 books in Arabic while readers can even find 2779 books in English. So, for those who like to be spoiled for choices as far as reading is concerned, this is a library that will not disappoint you. However, visitors are advised to confirm the opening hours of the library as it remains closed on Friday and Saturday.

Location - Al Shamal, Qatar

Timings - Sunday to Thursday: 7 am – 2 pm

10. Al Khor Public Library

Al Khor is regarded as one of the most historical cities in Qatar and the wonders present here are worth exploring by all means. One such wonder that book lovers would certainly love to explore is the Al Khor Public Library. Nestled in the city and established in 1977, the library comprises books that count to around 39,041. While this is the number of books available in Arabic, readers coming to the library can even find about 4013 books in English. So, what's the delay? The Al Khor Public Library has a vast collection of Arabic books that travelers would find fascinating. So, visit here and see what it has to offer.

Location - Al Khor, Qatar

Timings - Sunday to Thursday: 7 am - 2 pm

Suggested Read: Top Historical Places In Qatar To Embrace The Beauty of Bygone Era

11. Heritage Library

One of the most iconic libraries in the country, the Heritage Library makes an immense contribution to the cultural landscape of Qatar. The collection here includes rare and valuable archival documents, books, and periodicals in various European languages. In fact, visitors can even find early Arabic printed materials, such as books, journals, magazines, and newspapers; and Arabic manuscripts, maps, atlases, globes, historical photographs, and instruments and tools related to travel. What makes it in one of the popular libraries in Qatar is its collection of rare items that travelers can find only at this Heritage Library. The rate printed materials here date back to the 15th century.

But now here's a thing, while the collection at this library is something of a treat for the visitors, most of it comes from the collection of His Excellency Sheikh Hassan bin Mohammed bin Ali Al Thani. In fact, what is interesting is that the library was transferred to the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Heritage, and it later became a part of the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development. Today, this Qatar library remains open to the public and researchers under the supervision of the staff here.

Location - The Heritage Library situated in the heart of Qatar National Library

Timings - Visitors planning to visit the Heritage Library are advised to confirm its opening hours from the concerned authorities

12. Ali bin Abdullah Library

Sheikh Ali bin Abdullah Al Thani, who assumed the reigns of power in Qatar was renowned for his collection and it was after his death in 1982 AD when the library was established. With a large collection that has about 50 thousand Arabic titles, the library has three floors, the first floor of which contains books in all Islamic sciences while the second floor contains books on arts and other knowledge.

What is interesting about the library in Qatar is that students and researchers can come here to reach periodicals, important books from Islamic schools, and so much more. In fact, there is even a personal library collection of Sheikh Ali bin Abdullah Al Thani which visitors can explore when coming here. Today, it is one of the most popular libraries in Doha and continues to attract travelers from around the country. So, when are you visiting the Sheikh Ali bin Abdullah Al Thani Library to explore its amazing collection?

Location - The library is located in Umm Ghuwailina - Second Ring Road, near the Capital Security

Timings - The timings of the library are unknown. Visitors planning to visit the Ali bin Abdullah Library are advised to confirm its opening hours from the concerned authorities

Suggested Read: Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum: A Cultural Landmark of Qatar

13. College Of North Atlantic Library Qatar

One of the finest colleges to study in Qatar, the College Of North Atlantic in Qatar is home to its CNAQ Libary which is a paradise for book lovers. Bring an integral part of the college, the library aims to develop a collection that both supports and complements the whole curriculum of the college. Supporting students with their research, this is a library that is worth exploring for book lovers in the state.

While the services of this library in Doha are available both online and offline, one can visit here in person at the Main Library (Building 14), the Learning Commons (Building 3), and the Archives (Building 16). The best part is that people can come here from anywhere, anytime to explore the collection. For students, the CNAQ Library provides a perfect environment wherein they can effectively engage in individual research and study. So, if you're a bookoholic touring around Qatar, plan your visit to the CNAQ Library.

Location - Doha, Qatar

Timings - The timings of the library are unknown. Visitors planning to visit the CNAQ Library are advised to confirm its opening hours from the concerned authorities

One of the finest travel destinations in the Middle East, Qatar also houses some of the most iconic universities in the world. there are many libraries in Qatar that have something unique about its significance. every library in Qatar has something unique about it. At a time when education through books isn't something that the youth likes to talk about, these libraries are a great medium of reminding people about the immense importance that books carry in our lives today.

One can not only find a vast collection of Arabic books at the libraries but can also search for a range of English books from all categories. So, are you a bookaholic on a tour to Qatar? Well, the nation and its fascinating libraries await you with their vast collection.

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