Al Safa Art and Design Library is hosting a second-hand book fair over the holidays.
The event, which runs until Tuesday, was created to spread cultural awareness among the public by trying to promote reading as a lifestyle. The initiative is part of the Dubai Public Libraries cultural programme.
There are a number of second-hand books on sale, suitable for all age groups, with symbolic prices ranging from Dh3 to Dh10.
The fair is open daily from 8am to 8pm. The project is one that highlights Dubai Culture’s compliance with the National Literacy Strategy 2016-2026, which aims to promote cultural values in society and support all aspects of culture including the arts and literature.
Visiting the tucked-away library
Al Safa Art and Design Library was originally opened in 1989 but was revamped in 2019 with new stylish architecture and an invitingopen-plan layout that encourages visitors to sit, socialise and stay put.
The building stands out as a stark grey beacon of modernity against an older, coral-coloured backdrop, with foliage and a flyover almost obscuring it from view. But its sharp, angular shape catches your eye.
Beyond the floor-to-ceiling glass doors, a cafe sits tucked away to the left. A vast expanse of low-lying shelves with a selection of books in Arabic and English is ahead. You can read these inside the space but, unlike traditional libraries, you cannot take them home.
Scroll the gallery below to see more of Al Safa Art and Design Library in Dubai
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Al Safa Art & Design Library is based on Al Wasl Road. Reem Mohammed / The National -
Inside, there are a range of stylish workspaces and reading areas for members. Reem Mohammed / The National -
It's where art, design and literature intersect. Reem Mohammed / The National -
An outdoor courtyard will host a variety of activities during winter. Reem Mohammed / The National -
There are more than 4,000 titles across the adult and children's libraries, spanning both Arabic and English works. Reem Mohammed / The National -
The refurbishment is part of a plan to revamp all branches of Dubai Public Library. Reem Mohammed / The National -
There are a number of spaces where members can work. Reem Mohammed / The National -
Find rare books about design from the region. Reem Mohammed / The National -
Plenty of natural light floods in to the spaces. Reem Mohammed / The National -
There is also a selection of magazines. Reem Mohammed / The National -
Books focus on art and design, but there are also general titles. Reem Mohammed / The National -
A painting of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai. Reem Mohammed / The National -
the library, which originally opened in the 1980s, has been refurbished in a more modern style. Reem Mohammed / The National -
A paper sculpture at the recently reopened Al Safa Art and Design Library. Reem Mohammed / The National -
An Islamic art book displayed at Al Safa Art and Design Library. Reem Mohammed / The National -
Al Safa Art and Design Library offers group workspaces, meeting areas, a cafe, an art gallery, a lounge area and a children’s library. Reem Mohammed / The National -
Reading areas are well lit. Reem Mohammed / The National -
There is also gallery space for artists to host exhibitions. Reem Mohammed / The National
