Qatar National Library

The Heritage Library has a vast collection of rare documents and manuscripts, books and periodicals in several European languages.  It also showcases early Arabic materials, including manuscripts, atlases and historical photographs. Some of the rarest books date from the 15th century, the earliest days of the printing press.  With over one million books, and more than 500,000 e-books, QNL’s automated book sorting system allows patrons to easily access titles, while a vast array of activities and services offer a rounded learning and community experience. 

QNL provides an environment that fosters learning, play and innovation.  Tools and equipment are provided at the library’s Innovation Stations, catering to a dizzying array of activities and interests - videography, photography, design, sound editing and 3D printing.  A music studio and STEM focused products further promote learning through doing.  With an avowed focus on preserving important cultural and historical items, QNL contains a dedicated Conservation and Preservation Laboratory which restores items in the Heritage Library, whilst climate-controlled display cases help preserve them.  The Digitization Laboratory digitizes items from QNL and other collections, making them available to scholars worldwide. 

Education City is a destination in and of itself, particularly for architecture lovers.  With a number of satellite campuses for internationally recognized universities, a walk through the area is especially rewarding. From the Education City Mosque and Quranic Botanic Gardens, to the Ceremonial Court where students convocate, beautifully designed structures await.  To witness the evolution of the Arab realm through its art, head to MATHAF The Arab Museum of Modern Art, home to one of the largest collections of modern Arab art.  To see living heritage, Al Shaqab Equestrian Centre showcases Arabian horses, with a breeding centre, stables and more.