If you are a book fan, you can have some great loan libraries in Dubai. For literature lovers, curling a good book, a cup of tea, and hours of leisure on a comfortable sofa is excellent.
You can get lost in a fictional world, be fascinated by characters you have never encountered, and even teleport in the distant future, making the new shiny iPhone X look like old technology. The only downside to the reading habit is that books can be expensive. And, if you do not live in a mansion, there may not be enough space for every book you want. What you can do is join the library or visit some of the best-used bookstores in Dubai.
Dubai has public and private libraries where you can borrow books from various genres! Continue reading this article to discover the best attractions in the city, where you can find your favorite books at all times.
1- Beach libraries
To encourage people in Dubai to read, the Dubai Municipal Government has launched a unique “library” or self-service machine on the beaches of the entire city. These libraries are located at seaside hotspots such as Al Mamzar Corniche, Jumeirah 3, and Umm Suqeim 1. People can borrow for free, return, or even donate books for free. It is perfect for use if you forget your favorite pager! If you like to hit the sand after sunset, the municipality has ensured that the solar kiosks are well lit to read.
2- Public Libraries
Dubai has a comprehensive public library network in Hatta, Al Ras, Twar, Hor al Anz, Safa, Mankhool, Rashidiya, and Umm Suqeim. Seven of these branches also have dedicated children’s libraries. Contrary to popular belief, the Dubai Public Library has titles in English and Arabic, from novels to research and journals and periodicals. The library also has multi-functional classrooms that can be reserved for individuals or groups. If you need a quiet place to study, this is a perfect choice!
The first of these libraries opened in Al Ras in 1963 to achieve the rule of the late Chief Sheikh Sheikh Rashid bin Said Al Maktoum (1958-1990), the vision of the author. His wish was to provide knowledge and cultural center for the people of Dubai – the Dubai Public Library as we know it today. These libraries offer very affordable membership options.
3- Cultural space
This is not a random or average library in your city. Several of Dubai’s favorite art spaces have a book donation form that you can carry around, where you can find quirky and interesting titles in various languages. Some of our favorite attractions must be in A4 Plaza on Al Serkal Avenue, also an excellent and fun place to grab a cup of coffee and read a book or The Courtyard lobby in Al Quoz.
4- The old library
Adhering to its name, the Old Library is one of the earliest English libraries in Dubai, with more than 20,000 books covering various topics. Membership is open to anyone over the age of 18, but don’t worry borrowing in groups is considered family-friendly, which means that spouses and children are welcome to borrow books as principal members. However, the library is not commendable, and its collection will continue to increase.
This non-profit library is made up of volunteers and dates back to the Trucial State period. It was founded in 1969 when Mrs. Verney in London sent books to the British political agent in Dubai to use the British people stationed here (Her Library) Among their grandchildren. Since then, the library is amongst the most popular private libraries in Dubai, UAE.
The old library is at the moment located in the Gold and Diamond Park and will be moved to a new facility. The complex is rumored to be reopened at another location, but no official confirmation or date has been announced.