It’s time to plan a day trip to Sharjah! Wondering why? Sharjah will soon boast a state-of-the-art public library, called House of Wisdom. The new library is located on the Sharjah International Airport Road, amidst lush greenery and has a shot of stunning features including an art installation. Besides, there’s a cafe and a quiet reading space too! Bookworms, this place is just apt!
What’s It?
This April, Sharjah will have a new landmark on its maps! A high-tech public library, called House of Wisdom will occupy a massive part of the Sharjah International Airport Road. The landmark will open just in time to commemorate the World Book Capital.
Inside The House of Wisdom
The two-story building will house more than 105,000 books and will offer a digital as well as traditional reading experience to all age groups and nationalities. Sprawling across 12,000 square metre, the iconic structure will feature a stunning floating roof, along with a 15-metre-wide overhand that will provide shade during the day. Besides aluminum screens will filter the sun rays in the afternoon.
Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, head of the advisory committee of Sharjah World Book Capital and vice president of the International Publishers Association said: “The House of Wisdom project is a new cultural milestone and has strengthened Sharjah’s position as a melting pot of world cultures in the region”.
The library will also boast designated reading corners, discussion halls, spaces for exhibitions, and children’s education. There are also pretty suspended pods above the central courtyard for those who wish to read in a quiet, space amidst greenery. There’s also a book espresso machine that prints books on demand.
On the outside is a stunning art installation- The Scroll is inspired by Arabic scrolls and designed by British sculptor Gerry Judah. The installation allows people to walk around it and also features a water fountain, children’s play area and a garden.
We can’t wait to visit this when it opens!