Abu Dhabi Children’s Library resumes book lending and introduces live online classes

The library has also introduced an online programme

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES. 04 SEPTEMBER 2019. 

The Abu Dhabi Children’s Library at the Cultural Foundation of Abu Dhabi.

The library currently has an exhibition called Step Into A Story. It focuses on the role of pop-up and moveable books in literacy. The library building itself has been designed as a life-sized pop-up book with immersive spaces and interactive exhibits. It will also house the Children’s Arts Centre, where workshops will be held throughout each month for children aged five to 14. These will teach a variety of skills, including painting, drawing, jewellery design and music.

The Cultural Foundation of Abu Dhabi has announced a new programme of exhibitions, workshops and art events, which will launch on Wednesday, September 4 at the capital’s oldest historical site, the recently restored Qasr Al Hosn.

New spaces have opened in the foundation’s premises. This includes the Abu Dhabi Children’s Library and a 900-seat theatre.

“Since its creation in 1981, the Foundation has served as a key place for artists to learn, collaborate and create,” says Reem Fadda, the Cultural Foundation’s Director.

“We are thrilled to continue this legacy with a rich offering of unique and immersive arts spaces and a year-round programme of exhibitions, artist residencies and workshops.”

(Photo: Reem Mohammed/The National)

Reporter: Anna Zacharias + Alexandra Chaves
Section: NA + AC
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The Abu Dhabi Children's Library, which is located in the Cultural Foundation, has resumed its book lending services, the Department of Culture and Tourism announced in a statement.

While no children will be allowed in the library, parents will be able to use their children's library cards to borrow and return books on their behalf. All books will be regularly sanitised.

The library has also said that books borrowed before the temporary closure of the library have automatically been extended, but must be returned by Sunday, August 30. 
Starting Sunday, July 26, the library will also offer a programme of free online live classes and workshops as part of the CulturAll campaign launched by DCT Abu Dhabi in April of this year.

“In this time of uncertainty and social distancing, more than ever children need the opportunity to learn, create and exercise their imagination,” said Reem Fadda, Director of the Cultural Foundation in a statement.

“We at the Cultural Foundation and the Abu Dhabi Children’s Library are committed to reaching and serving our audiences regardless of the strenuous circumstances we are all facing. For us, the safety and mental wellbeing of our community is paramount and we know that culture and creativity is an important outlet in this regard. Therefore, we are so pleased to be able to resume book lending services and offer online classes so the younger generation may continue to expand their horizons,” Fadda said.

The online programme will include free classes, held on Zoom, such as Storytelling, Tinker Tots & Maker Mums, Creature Space and assorted art sessions. The classes will be offered daily and cater to children of ages 2 to 14.

Lending services at the Abu Dhabi Children's Library will be available Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 5pm and on Friday from 2pm to 7pm. To register for a library card, visit www.culturalfoundation.ae/en/childrenslibrary