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

The library has also introduced an online programme

The Abu Dhabi Children’s Library at the Cultural Foundation is reintroducing its lending services again. Reem Mohammed/The National

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