Sharjah Heritage Seeks Knowledge Partnerships with the “American Research Libraries (ARL)” to Enhance Heritage Documentation
His Excellency Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, received Mr. Almar Siebel, President of the American Research Libraries (ARL), along with Mr. John Rutter, at his office at the Institute’s headquarters in University City. The meeting was attended by Dr. Hamad bin Saray, Advisor for Studies at the Institute; Dr. Mounir Bounama, Director of Content and Publishing; and Noura Al Khayal, Head of the Media Department.
Strengthening Cooperation in Libraries and Rare Collections
This visit comes ضمن efforts to strengthen cultural relations and expand cooperation with international institutions specializing in libraries, archives, and rare collections. Both sides discussed ways to collaborate in documenting cultural heritage, exchanging expertise in library management, and developing mechanisms for preserving and disseminating knowledge in line with rapid digital transformations.
Review of Global Heritage Collections
During the meeting, Mr. Almar Siebel presented distinguished collections covering Arab and Islamic heritage, architecture, folk arts, and traditional crafts, in addition to collections of maps, photographs, and private libraries. These are intended for inclusion in the Institute’s new library, currently under development in accordance with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.
Libraries as Guardians of Cultural Memory
The meeting also highlighted the importance of libraries as custodians of cultural memory and centers for transferring knowledge across generations. It further explored opportunities to launch joint initiatives and programs that promote awareness of human heritage and support specialized research projects.
Tour of the Institute’s Facilities and Specialized Centers
The delegation toured the Institute’s facilities and key centers, including the Restoration and Manuscripts Department, the Heritage Library, and the Arab Heritage Center. They were briefed on the nature of work and programs dedicated to safeguarding heritage and disseminating knowledge. The tour concluded at the International Organizations Center for Cultural Heritage, where they were received by H.E. Nasser Al Darmaki, Deputy Director of the ICCROM Regional Center in Sharjah. Discussions also addressed the role of museums as cultural platforms that foster dialogue and strengthen connections between peoples.
Openness to Global Best Practices
This visit reflects the Sharjah Institute for Heritage’s commitment to engaging with international experiences and benefiting from best global practices in archiving and documentation, thereby strengthening its efforts to preserve Emirati cultural heritage and promote it on a wider scale.
At the conclusion of the visit, H.E. Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam presented Mr. Almar Siebel with a selection of the Institute’s publications in foreign languages, including books and magazines, underscoring the importance of knowledge exchange and shared cultural presence. The two sides also exchanged commemorative gifts.