Sharjah Public Libraries have introduced an updated version of their Smart Knowledge Library platform, which offers a range of professional and technical courses that can be taken online. These courses are taught by well-known experts and specialists, and the platform has a user-friendly design that works well on mobile devices. Participants can enjoy short educational courses available in both Arabic and English, complete with interactive quizzes and instant certificates upon completion. The registration process is simple and includes a quick video that guides users on how to enroll and make the most of their courses.
Sharjah Public Libraries have emerged as a leader in the digital age, especially during the COVID-19 lockdown when they made over 15 million digital resources available to the public online. In 2021, they launched the Smart Knowledge Library to provide free courses aimed at helping people grow their professional and digital skills. This shows that the library’s mission extends beyond just lending books; it is committed to supporting community development.
This shift aligns with a broader global movement towards self-directed learning. UNESCO recognizes digital innovation as a driving force towards achieving “Education for All,” and many learners are now finding ways to learn at their own pace outside traditional classrooms. Sharjah Libraries have continued to host online workshops and meetings, reaching a wider audience beyond just those who visit the library in person.
The Smart Knowledge Library platform fits perfectly into Sharjah’s broader cultural vision. It reflects the emirate’s ambition to be a global center for culture that values books and reading while also embracing digital knowledge. By offering courses in both Arabic and English, the platform helps to promote reading and self-learning among people of all ages, making digital culture a key part of building a knowledgeable society.
Additionally, the platform supports local cultural industries by teaching people the skills needed to create high-quality content in areas like publishing, translation, and digital media. This makes it a vital tool for enhancing Sharjah’s cultural impact both locally and internationally and achieving the goal of integrating culture into everyday life, not just something to enjoy occasionally.