Sharjah Ruler grants Dh4.5m to support publishing houses

Move will allow emirate's libraries to buy latest titles

Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, has pledged 4.5 million to purchase new books for the emirate's libraries. 

Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammed Al Qasimi issued a Dh4.5 million grant to support publishing houses exhibiting at the Sharjah International Book Fair.

The grant by the Ruler of Sharjah will be used by the emirate's libraries to acquire the latest titles from these houses across Arabic, literary and scientific themes.

Ahmed Al Ameri, chairman of Sharjah Book Authority, said the grant would benefit the entire country by building a comprehensive library in the emirate.

The Sharjah International Book Fair is celebrating its 38th year and over the course of the event will welcome dozens of high-profile speakers such as authors Orhan Pamuk and Vikram Seth.

It also features 2,000 exhibitors, and runs until November 9.

Sheikh Dr Sultan made a similar pledge during the Sharjah Children's Reading Festival in April.

He agreed to donate Dh2.5 million to replenish library stocks in the emirate.