Sharjah Ruler unveils monument to celebrate World Book Capital title

The project has Sharjah's ambitious cultural vision at heart.-Supplied photo

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, on Tuesday unveiled the Sharjah World Book Capital 2019 Monument. The 36.5-metre sculpture is inspired by an ancient scroll design that represented the lasting power of books and how reading unites people.
The true spiral is made of 72 tonnes of steel with 240 tonnes of concrete foundation underneath a 4-metre base. Shaped like a torch, the monument highlights Sharjah's ongoing efforts aimed at fostering reading and stressing the important role of books in intellectuality and enlightenment.
The monument was developed by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) and commissioned by UK-based artist, Gerry Judah. It commemorates Sharjah's landmark cultural achievement as the first city in the Gulf Region and third city in the Arab world to be given the World Book Capital title by the Unesco.
House of Wisdom
The Sharjah Ruler also unveiled the 'House of Wisdom' project. Scheduled for a public opening in 2020, the iconic library and cultural centre will be the newest addition to Sharjah's several public offerings where books and knowledge can be openly accessed by people of all age groups and nationalities.
Designed by award-winning British architectural design and engineering firm Foster and Partners, the project has Sharjah's ambitious cultural vision at heart. Extending over 12,000 square metres, it is located by the Sharjah International Airport road and near the University City of Sharjah. The building is characterised by a simple design, contemporary architecture and interactive facilities.
The front of the building's façade will be entirely transparent, made from UV resistant glass to offer visitors the experience of reading in natural light as they enjoy floor-to-ceiling views of the beautifully-landscaped gardens surrounding the library.
The building has two floors comprising a 105,000-book library, discussion halls, reading areas - both indoors and outdoors in the garden - a children's education space, a prayer room and a dedicated women's area.
It is designed as a model for future libraries that blend traditional and digital sources of knowledge, interactive learning and contemporary pedagogy in a unique aesthetic featuring multipurpose halls.
In addition, the House of Wisdom will provide a speed-record printing machine for visitors, which will not only print a book, but also provide a quality cover.
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