Eclectic schedule will feature local authors, Moroccan astrolabes, digital health, international conferences and assistive technology.

Qatar National Library Enriches Cultural Scene with Array of September Events

2 September 2024

: Qatar National Library will host a captivating lineup of free cultural and educational events this September, inviting the community to delve into a world of knowledge and creativity. The events, designed to promote learning, cultural exchange, and community engagement, enrich Qatar's dynamic cultural scene, appealing to every interest and age group.

On 3 September, the Library will explore our relationship with the digital world and delve into the concept of digital addiction and the impact of artificial intelligence during a presentation titled “Digital Wellbeing vs. Digital Addiction: Clarifying Technology's Impact.”

The following day, on 4 September, the Library, in cooperation with the State Audit Bureau, will share insights into the bureau’s role in safeguarding public funds and combating corruption.

The third edition of the "Doha Workshop to Combat Illicit Trafficking in Cultural Heritage" begins on 9 September, bringing together regional and international experts over three days to discuss efforts to strengthen legal and institutional frameworks in the latest bid to protect cultural heritage in the Arab region and the Middle East.

On 12 September, the QNL Engage Podcast resumes under the theme “The Role of Institutions, Individuals and the Society in Integrating and Supporting Persons with Disabilities”. The first episode of the fourth season hosts Aisha Al-Sanani from the Mada Assistive Technology Center to discuss the center’s role in empowering people with disabilities through technology.

Later in the evening, the Library hosts a magical musical event featuring enchanting music from Qatar and Morocco performed by MAias Alyamani and the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. This event is one of many that will celebrate cultural exchange during the Qatar – Morocco 2024 Year of Culture.

On 15 September, the Library organizes the "Third Forum on Heritage Management: Digital Access and Artificial Intelligence Applications". The two-day event takes participants on an explorative journey to discuss the role of technology in enhancing archive management, usability and searchability. The forum will familiarize participants with models of digital repositories for documentary heritage in governmental and private institutions within the cultural sector in Arab countries.

The QNL Engage Podcast resumes on 19 September, with the second episode featuring the founder of the Autism Parents platform Hamda Al-Hitmi, who will discuss "The Role of The Family and Community in Supporting Children with Autism." Al-Hitmi will share effective ways to raise awareness in the community.

On 21 September, the focus turns to authors based in Qatar who will have the opportunity to showcase their works and discuss the role of publishers in enhancing the creative scene in Qatar as part of the Books and Authors series.

Concluding the vibrant September schedule, the Library will celebrate the Qatar - Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, with an enlightening lecture and hands-on workshop on the history, anatomy, and use of the astrolabe. The event, which will take place on 30 September, will spotlight the exquisite craftsmanship of renowned Moroccan astrolabe makers. Attendees will delve into the fascinating history and intricate mechanics of astrolabes, seeing surviving examples of these crucial astronomical instruments. The session will also provide an opportunity to explore related books, manuscripts, and instruments from the Heritage Library Collection, offering a window into the historical significance of astronomy and instrument-making in Morocco.

For more information about the Library’s events, all of which are free of charge, please visit www.qnl.qa/en/events.