Qatar National Library has announced a bumper agenda of monthly events for October, with a host of programs designed to stimulate both the senses and synapses for children and adults alike.
On 5 October, middle and high school students can join the Library online for “Ask a Young Adults’ Librarian,” an hour-long question and answer session hosted by a young adults’ librarian. Participants can ask any queries they have related to the Library’s resources and services, and will learn about the stages of becoming a librarian and the extensive career opportunities that the role can offer.
Also on 5 October and every Monday throughout the month, join the Library for Online Storytelling for Children, when librarians bring the magic of storytelling to life by reading a classic tale, as well as creating narratives with the online group.
On 8 October, patrons can join the Library online to explore the amazing electronic collection available for younger readers on the Library’s website. It’s available any day of the week, any time of day, and includes audiobooks, read-alongs, games, puzzles, printouts and more.
On 11 October, the Library delves into important contemporary issues by running the workshop “Preserving Your Mental Health in a Changing World.” Negative emotions can be a healthy reaction to the challenges people face, but for many, things can become more serious. Being aware of what can affect one’s mental health can make it easier to understand when individuals are struggling, and what can be done to improve things with the right kind of support.
On 13 October, children can join the Library on Microsoft Teams for Najem Es’hail Book Club. The aim is to plant a seed and grow the love of reading across three months, with one session per month, discussing one book per session. Parents should encourage their child to attend all three sessions to reap the maximum benefits of the club.
Join the Library on 14 October for “Explore Sustainable Development Goals Through Building Bricks.” This virtual workshop uses the Lego Serious Play methodology to help young people get acquainted with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and make meaningful connections between their daily lives and solutions to common global problems. This workshop will be presented by Dr. M. Evren Tok, Associate Professor and Assistant Dean for Innovation and Community Advancement, Program Coordinator for Islam and Global Affairs Program at the College of Islamic Studies at Hamad Bin Khalifa University.
Also on 14 October, participate in “The 360 Librarian: Mindfulness, Emotional Intelligence and Critical Reflection in the Workplace.” Join Tammi M. Owens and Carol A. Daul-Elhindi as they share excerpts from their book The 360 Librarian, look at the soft skills that can enhance careers, relationships and the workplace mindset, and take participants on an interactive exploration of the practice.
Patrons can join the Library on 19 October to remember Alija Izetbegović, a Bosnian politician, activist, lawyer, author and philosopher who in 1992 became the first President of the newly independent Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina. His book, Islam between East and West, is a treatise in understanding Islam in the modern age and continues to inspire to this day. The lecture takes place on the 17th anniversary of his death.
From 19 to 25 October, the Library will celebrate Open Access Week, a global event now entering its tenth year. The Library, together with the academic and research community, will illustrate the benefits of open access through a series of events throughout the week. Open access provides free, immediate, online access to scholarly research, and the right to use and re-use those results. Participants will share what they’ve learned with colleagues to help inspire wider participation in helping to make open access the new norm in scholarship and research.
For more information on all of the events taking place in October, keep an eye on the Library’s website and social media channels for the latest.
