Enter to borrow a book, leave an origami expert

Dubai libraries will hold summer workshops to spark more interest in local art.

Dozens of workshops on subjects from origami to etiquette will take place at Dubai public libraries this summer.

The four-week Our Summer is About Arts and Culture programme begins on June 26. It will include sessions on embroidery, calligraphy, stamp exhibitions, first-aid training and gardening.

Other sessions will teach perfume-bottle designing, knitting, pottery design and agriculture, as well as other crafts.

The workshops "will play a significant role in the development of a rich literary and cultural infrastructure of Dubai", said Mohammed al Araidi, the head of the library department at the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority. "An important community space, the Dubai Public Library, will serve as a platform for cross-cultural dialogue, giving children and adults opportunities to take part in an array of activities that will foster an understanding and appreciation for our heritage, culture, the arts and literature."

Additionally, the libraries will provide lessons on the Quran and sessions on health and road safety.

Lectures will also focus on the written word, from storytelling to research writing.

The activities will take place at Al Twar, Hor Al Anz, Al Rashidya, Al Safa and Hatta public libraries, and Umm Suqeim Electronic Library.

The libraries are collaborating on the project with organisations including the Gulf Film Festival, Muhammad the Messenger Museum, Sikka Art Fair and Dubai Festival for Youth Theatre.

For more information on the activities, contact: Al Twar Public Library (04 263 0013), Hor Al Anz Public Library (04 266 1788), Al Rashidiya Public Library (04 285 8065), Al Safa Public Library (04 3947 279), Umm Suqeim Electronic Library (04 348 2512) and Hatta Public Library (04 852 1022).