Experience of being immersed in a sea of literature: Region's largest library greets initial patrons
Mohammed Bin Rashid Library Opens Its Doors to Thrilled Visitors
On its grand opening day, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library (MBRL) in Dubai welcomed a diverse crowd of visitors, including Elizabeth, a Filipino expat, and local students like Rahila, a psychology student at Middlesex University, and her brother Adil, a computer science student at Herriot Watt University.
The expansive library spans 54,000sqm across seven floors and nine libraries, offering a haven for avid readers who had been eagerly waiting for its opening. Elizabeth arrived an hour before it opened at 8am, eager to be among the first to explore the new cultural landmark.
Saleha, another visitor, enjoys the atmosphere of libraries and loves books and reading. She was joined by Halima, a fellow student, who showed great interest in the Art and Vinyl book they found in the Media and Art library.
The children's library within the MBRL is a delight for young ones, featuring kid-friendly furniture, a playground, and teepee tents. The library's collection includes over 17,000 board books, picture books, and stories, ensuring there's something for every child.
For those seeking a quiet, peaceful space for study or relaxation, the MBRL offers a tranquil environment. It also boasts a delightful cafe and partially enclosed study areas for single and group studies.
The library houses 1.1 million books in 30 languages, making it a comprehensive resource for readers. Mr. Jiyad, an Indian expat, was particularly impressed by the vast selection of books and the quiet, calm atmosphere of the library.
Rahila is looking forward to using the library for studying, especially for her research projects. Saleha and Halima, two students born and raised in Dubai, are considering taking a library membership after their visit.
Elizabeth was particularly pleased to see a sensory pod in the information center, which she believes will be beneficial for her autistic son. The library also offers an entire floor dedicated to study rooms that can be booked for free.
For precise information regarding services for individuals with special needs and children, it is advisable to visit the library's official website or contact them directly. It is also recommended to inquire about any accessibility features such as wheelchair accessibility, braille materials, or audio descriptions, and children's programs or activities they offer, such as storytime sessions or educational workshops.
[1] Source: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/nation/uae-government/mbrl-opens-its-doors-to-the-public [2] Source: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/nation/uae-government/mbrl-opens-its-doors-to-the-public [3] Source: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/nation/uae-government/mbrl-opens-its-doors-to-the-public
- Saleha and Halima, after visiting the Media and Art library, expressed interest in taking a library membership for further studies in literature and art.
- The expansive Mohammed Bin Rashid Library (MBRL) is not only a haven for avid readers and researchers but also houses a children's library with a special collection for young readers.
- The MBRL offers a tranquil environment for study and relaxation, with a delightful cafe, partially enclosed study areas, and even a sensory pod in the information center.
- The library's website or direct contact provides details on services for individuals with special needs, accessibility features such as wheelchair accessibility, braille materials, or audio descriptions, as well as children's programs or activities like storytime sessions or educational workshops. [Reference: 3]
