October brings a diverse selection of events for Qatar National Library visitors, who can chat with local authors and illustrators, learn more about food safety and explore mental health strategies.
Readers and aspiring writers will get to hear several Qatari authors discuss literature in Qatar and share their experiences on October 23 in the ‘Qatar National Library’s Qatari Authors Forum.’ Local journalist and writer Amal Abdulmalik will moderate the event.
On October 13, young readers and their families will have the opportunity to meet local authors and illustrators during the art workshop organized by ‘Maktaba’ and the ‘Generation Amazing’ program of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy. Participants will have the chance to meet the authors and illustrators behind six new children’s books, listen to story time and take part in exciting art activities.
On October 13 also, the Library will host a series of events to mark World Mental Health Day, in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health, the Ministry of Interior, Primary Healthcare Corporation and Vodafone Qatar. Experts will provide tips on dealing with mental health issues in interactive workshops including ‘Progressive Muscle Relaxation,’ ‘Mindfulness in the Workplace,’ ‘Drugs and Mental Health’ and ‘Mental Health Care Services.’
Dr. Nouf Khashman, the Library’s Outreach and Community Engagement Manager, said: ‘Our October events reflect the wide range ways people can use the Library to broaden their horizons. Whether you want to reduce your stress level through mindfulness or chat with a local author, the Library is your place to make it happen.’
The Library welcomed the Social Development Center – NAMA on October 1 for the launch of its ‘Qarari’ campaign, which aims to educate local youth about the importance of selecting disciplines that lead to fulfilling professional careers.
Dr. Richard O’Kennedy, Qatar Foundation Vice President for Research, Development and Innovation, will speak on the role of science as a driver for peace and its role in national identity in ‘Science Forum as a Motor for Peace’ on October 16. Members of the public are encouraged to register for the event on the Library’s website.
The Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra continues its monthly concert series at the Library on October 18, led by famous Syrian violinist MAias Alyamani, one of the Philharmonic’s original musicians.
Experts from the Ministry of Public Health will address food and water quality in Qatar in the October 25 event ‘Is Our Food Contaminated With Chemicals?’ The Ministry’s representatives will also offer tips on how people in Qatar can protect themselves from environmental pollution and other health hazards.
On October 25, the Orchestra of the Filipino Youth will perform a selection of classical music favorites under the baton of conductor Joshua Dos Santos. The concert is open to the public.
On October 28, to celebrate International Open Access Week, the Library will host a lecture by Dr. Torsten Reimer of the British Library and Dr. Hilal Lashueland of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology entitled, ‘Designing Equitable Foundations for Open Knowledge: The Role of the National Library.’
