Bookworm? Looking to broaden your mind and learn new things? It’s time to sign up for Qatar National Library.
There are a lot of reasons to be thankful we live in Doha, but we think having access to more than one million books, magazines, newspapers and ebooks for both kids and adults – in 16 different languages – completely for free, should be right up there.
Not only is Qatar National Library a brilliant place to read, there are also loads of events and exhibitions every month too, from workshops to kids’ story times.
Ready to get involved? Here’s our quick guide on everything you need to know about Qatar National Library.
What is Qatar National Library?
Qatar National Library is an important part of Qatar’s heritage, and is a place for the public to learn more about the country. It was officially inaugurated on April 16, 2018, by His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar.
As well as the books there are innovation stations allowing members access to 3D printing and a music studio, as well as public computers, free Wi-Fi and silent study spaces.
You can take a general library or heritage library tour to familiarise yourself with Qatar National Library – the tours are free and must be registered for in advance.
The Heritage Library is a collection of rare and valuable Arabic manuscripts, early printed materials, maps, globes, atlases history photographs and more – many of which date back to the 15th century.
What about the architecture?
There are two things you’re likely to notice when approaching the Qatar National Library: one, that it’s absolutely massive, at 45,000 square metres, and two, that it has a very distinct shape.
World-renowned architect Rem Koolhaas designed the building to resemble two pieces of paper that have been folded diagonally at the corners to create a shell-like structure, with a glass façade to ensure the inside gets plenty of natural light that’s perfect for reading.
Then, on the inside, the bookshelves are meant to rise out of the floor, highlighting the value of books in Qatari culture, and different areas use different materials, with marble in the Heritage Library, and modern stainless steel for other collections.
What about events and exhibitions at Qatar National Library?
Every month, Qatar National Library hosts dozens of events, ranging from workshops and talks to performances from the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.
You can sign up online at qnl.qa/en to take part and most of the events are free.
October 2023’s focus is on creative writing and design and there’s everything from Arabic lessons and non-fiction workshops to courses on how to write a novel and toddlers’ story times. Click here for the line-up.
How to join Qatar National Library
By now, we’ve surely convinced you it’s well worth signing up to be a Qatar National Library member.
All Qatari citizens and residents are entitled to a membership card, completely free, and you will need to provide a copy of your Qatari ID or residence permit while signing up.
To register, you can either visit the library with your ID and fill in a registration form, or head to qnl.qa, and fill it in online. Details the form asks for include your name, email address, date of birth, and address. Your membership needs renewal when your QID or residency permit is up for renewal.
How do I borrow a book from Qatar National Library?
Head along, pick your chosen reading material and check it out. Loan periods for books are 21 days. Adults, kids and teens can take out six books at a time.
Just be sure to return it on time – you’ll be blocked from borrowing any new books until the overdue items are returned.
You can renew a book twice, unless it’s on hold, while books can be returned to the stations inside the library or at the 24/7 drop off station outside the library.
Are there study spaces at Qatar National Library?
Student, or work from home? There are 28 individual study rooms with a desk and power outlets for when you need some peace and quiet to concentrate. There are also open tables and reading rooms throughout the library. You can book study rooms in advance.
You might also like: Remote working cafés in Doha
Is there a café at Qatar National Library?
If you can’t function without your morning cup of coffee, not to worry, as there’s a café inside Qatar National Library. Safahat Coffee Bar & Bakehouse promises snacks and drinks to ‘recharge you and keep you in a powerful state of mind’.
Drinks include an all-natural rainbow latte, charcoal and turmeric latte as well as juices, teas, frozen drinks and nut milks. When it comes to snacks expect freshly baked bread and pastries, sandwiches, salads and more. There’s also a large selection of cakes and tarts, as well as gluten-free and high-protein snacks.
Take a seat in one of the bubble chairs and refuel before a big study or reading session.
safahat.co.
Are kids allowed at Qatar National Library?
Yes, kids and teens are allowed to borrow books and use study spaces at the library. The Children’s and Young Adults Library has more than 100,000 books to choose from including ebooks, board books, picture books, non-fiction, easy reader, fiction, biographies and graphic novels.
There’s even a list of suggested books to read with your child to give you inspiration. For the Young Adults section – aimed at teens from 12 to 18 – there are more than 30,000 books, plus video games consoles, musical instruments, computers and homework support.
For the really little ones, there is a Sensory Room for infants up to the age of three full of stimuli and toys to develop and engage their senses.
Finally, there are a range of events, workshops and discussions aimed at kids and teens, so keep an eye online at qnl.qa/en.
What are the opening hours for Qatar National Library?
The Qatar National Library is open Saturday to Thursday 8am to 8pm, and on a Friday from 4pm until 8pm. The Children’s Library closes daily at 6.30pm.
How do I get to Qatar National Library?
Located in Education City, paying a visit to the Qatar National Library is super easy as the library is a stop on the Doha Metro green line.
If you’re driving, you can park at the Oxygen Park’s underground car park or the Education City Mosque car park, and take the free Education City tram to the Multaqa station.
Open Sat-Thu 8am-8pm, Fri 4pm-8pm. Education City, Home qnl.qa/en (4454 0100).
