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Qatar National Library Highlights Cultural Heritage Through Family Collections.

Doha: Qatar National Library (QNL) recently hosted the second edition of the "Memory of Qatar's Special Collections" seminar series, celebrating the nation's cultural heritage with the presence of esteemed guests including HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani; HE Minister of State and President of Qatar National Library, Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kawari; and HE Minister of Education and Higher Education, Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater. According to Qatar News Agency, this seminar series underscores the importance of family libraries as key elements in preserving Qatar's history and traditions. The latest edition, held on 25 November, featured collections from Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Al Mana and Sheikh Hamed bin Ahmed Al Marwani, both of whom have contributed significantly to Qatar's educational and cultural landscape. HE Dr. Al Kawari emphasized the strategic importance of family collections in preserving national heritage, noting the ir role in filling narrative gaps and providing unique historical insights. He highlighted the commitment to preserving Qatar's cultural legacy for future generations and the vital role individuals and family libraries play in this mission. Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Al Mana was instrumental in early education in Qatar, founding the Al-Atharia School in 1915 and establishing a library that became the cornerstone of Dar Al Kutub Al Qatariyya. Similarly, Sheikh Hamed bin Ahmed Al Marwani was a pioneer in Qatar's educational movement in the early 20th century. The seminar featured discussions by Mr. Mohamed Yeslem El Moujawad and Hassan Al Marwani on the libraries of Sheikh Abdulaziz Al Mana and the Al Marwani family, respectively. Moderated by Abdulrahman Salem Al Marri, the discussions explored Qatar's cultural landscape during the era of founder Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani, highlighting the stories behind these valuable collections. Aisha Hassan Al Ansari, Head of the Heritage Collection at Qat ar National Library, expressed pride in engaging with the community through the seminar series. She reiterated QNL's commitment to enhancing the value of these collections as a vital part of Qatar's cultural heritage through education and support.