Historical Glimpse Into Qatar’s Society at Qatar National Library Discussion on Travel Literature

Press release

Published June 18th, 2019 - 05:32 GMT

During the event

Highlights

Qatar National Library presented a panel discussion, “Western Travelers and the Image of the Other Through the Heritage Library Collection” on 16 June, an insightful discussion, which examined the contributions of travel literature to contemporary knowled

Offering their insights on this popular literary genre, the panelists included Mohammed Hammam Fakri, Heritage and Rare Books Advisor at the Library, Dr. Youssef Al Abdulla, Professor of History at Qatar University, and Dr. Mustafa Stiti, Research Specialist on Ottoman and Turkish Studies. The interactive discussion was moderated by Dr. Moez Dridi, Senior Archivist at the Library.

Each speaker focused on the history of Qatar as described by these travelers, drawing on valuable texts from the Heritage Library collection, which are accessible for researchers and history scholars in Qatar and the region. Participants also learned about how scholars are rediscovering Qatari society through these travel writings.

Mansoor Ahmed, who attended the event, said: “The event was very enlightening and useful to learn about the region’s history from a different perspective. I am happy to see that the Library has a number of historical texts at the Heritage Library and on the Qatar Digital Library, which can be accessed by people free of cost.”

The panelists discussed the most well-known travel narratives from Western travelers whose perspectives offer an understanding of the social and political history of the Gulf region and Qatar.

Another participant at the event, Laila Muradian, said: “The Library is making it easier for me and other researchers to access rare books and manuscripts about the history of Qatar and the region. I will continue to make use of the wonderful resources here.”

The Library’s events in June focus on the theme of travel. To find out more about the Library’s events and exhibitions, please visitwww.qnl.qa/en/events.

Background Information

Qatar National Library

Qatar National Library acts as a steward of Qatar’s national heritage by collecting, preserving and making available the country’s recorded history. In its role as a research library with a preeminent heritage library, the Library fosters and promotes greater global insight into the history and culture of the Gulf region. As a public library, we provide equal access for all of Qatar's residents to an environment that supports creativity, independent decision-making, and cultural development. Through all our functions, we provide leadership to the country’s library and cultural heritage sector.