Libraries in Oman guard knowledge and identity in the digital age

MUSCAT: Libraries in Oman stand as vital pillars of the nation’s cultural landscape, preserving collective memory and documenting history. They serve as beacons of knowledge and civilisation, nurturing generations of citizens who are aware of their culture, history and identity.
Since the earliest times, Oman has recognised the value of books and libraries in spreading science and knowledge. This awareness led to the establishment of a wide network of libraries — from the National Library of Oman to public, private, and digital libraries — all playing a key role in safeguarding intellectual heritage, promoting reading, supporting research, and fostering cultural dialogue and openness. Together, they form a bridge connecting Oman’s past with its present and future.
Dr Musa bin Nasr al Mufarji, Supervisor of the Oman National Library Project, said the library aims to serve as a comprehensive cultural and knowledge beacon dedicated to preserving Omani intellectual output in all its traditional and digital forms. “The National Library will deposit Omani works and protect national intellectual production, thereby contributing to the preservation of Oman’s cultural memory and strengthening national identity,” he said.
Dr Al Mufarji added that the upcoming library will include all publications and research related to Oman — government documents, academic dissertations and the proceedings of conferences and seminars — offering researchers a comprehensive reference on the Sultanate’s history and culture. A dedicated children’s library will also be established, featuring a diverse collection of books, educational games, and materials designed to nurture a love for reading and reinforce identity and belonging from an early age.
The National Library will include specialised halls and departments, such as those for Manuscripts and Rare Books, Omani and Arabian Peninsula Studies, and research on the Imams and Sultans of Oman. It will also provide reference services for both printed and digital encyclopedic resources.

Hamoud bin Mohammed al Busaidy, Head of the Information Marketing Department at the Main Library of Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), said university libraries play a key role in promoting reading and knowledge culture among students, academics, and staff. “Our library holds over four million electronic theses, half a million printed and electronic books, and more than 45,000 periodicals, along with global database subscriptions,” he explained. These resources, he said, strengthen scientific research and develop students’ information literacy.
Al Busaidy emphasised that the SQU Library seeks to enhance its role by organising cultural events, adopting digital technologies, and supporting Omani authors. It also serves as a community hub by providing access to knowledge for all segments of society.
Munir bin Nasser al Batashi, Director of the Oman Research and Education Network at the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, highlighted the network’s role in advancing digital knowledge and linking educational and research institutions through a unified system. “This national project supports Oman’s research and innovation ecosystem in line with Oman Vision 2040,” he said. The network, he added, bridges academic knowledge and cultural activity, enabling libraries and cultural institutions to access global digital resources and exchange expertise across disciplines.
Warda bint Hassan al Lawatiyah, Head of the Cultural Library Department at the Ministry of Information, said the library preserves Omani media heritage by archiving historical issues of Oman Daily and Oman Observer newspapers up to 2017, along with rare periodicals. The collection also includes heritage books and publications covering Omani history, tourism and culture.
Khamis bin Rashid al Adawi, Head of the Al Nadwa Cultural Centre in Bahla, said the centre contributes to preserving Omani heritage through initiatives such as the Bahla Forum for Cultural Studies. “We collect manuscripts, document oral histories, and compile an encyclopedia of prominent Omani figures — sultans, imams, judges and travellers — whose contributions shaped Oman’s history,” he said. A children’s knowledge room will also be included to encourage youth engagement with cultural heritage.
Maryam bint Ali Al Qamshouiyah, owner of the Red Fox Bookstore, emphasised the role of libraries in shaping reading awareness and strengthening the relationship between children and books. “Reading is not merely a skill — it’s a window through which children view the world and build values and identity,” she said.
Al Qamshoui stressed the importance of children’s libraries and publishing houses in safeguarding cultural identity amid globalisation and digitisation. “Books drawn from the Omani environment help instil pride and belonging. Libraries must continue serving as bridges connecting Omani writers and readers with the wider Arab world,” she added. — ONA