“Libraries Are More Than Books; They Are About Community and Information”
By Armstrong Vaz
Doha: In an era increasingly dominated by digital technology, libraries continue to play a vital role in connecting people with knowledge, culture and community. This was the message shared by Ms. Tan Huism, Executive Director of Qatar National Library, during an exclusive interview with journalist Armstrong Vaz on the sidelines of the inauguration of the Indian Cultural Centre’s Community Library in Doha.
Reflecting on the transformation of libraries over the past two decades, Ms. Huism said that while technology has changed the way information is accessed, the fundamental purpose of libraries remains unchanged.
“Everybody thinks a library is about books, but actually a library is much more than books. It is about community and it is about information,” she said.
According to Huism, information today exists in multiple formats, including traditional printed books and digital platforms. Rather than viewing digitisation as a challenge, she believes libraries have successfully evolved alongside technological advancements.
“Information can reside in physical formats such as books or in the digital world. For libraries, what matters is not the format but the content. Libraries have always been part of the information landscape, and our role is to ensure that people can access knowledge regardless of how it is delivered,” she explained.
Huism stressed that the real objective is to encourage reading and learning, whether through physical books or digital resources.
“Whether people read a printed book or a digital book, as long as they are reading, we are happy,” she remarked.
She praised the newly established ICC Community Library for its emphasis on Indian languages and cultural preservation, describing it as an important resource for the community.
“The beauty of this initiative is that it gives people the opportunity to read in their own language. Language carries culture, and when communities preserve their language, they preserve their cultural heritage as well. That is extremely important,” she said.
Discussing the quality of books being published today, Huism noted that every generation produces both exceptional and less remarkable works, a reality that has remained unchanged over time.
“There are good books and sometimes there are bad books. That is simply human nature,” she observed.
However, she encouraged readers to develop critical reading skills by exploring a wide variety of literature, particularly classic works.
“When you read more and expose yourself to the classics, you become a more discerning reader. You learn to recognise what makes a book meaningful and valuable. At the same time, even books that may not be considered great can still carry important messages and offer useful perspectives,” she said.
For Huism, one of the greatest strengths of reading is its ability to help people understand different viewpoints and experiences.
“Reading allows you to put yourself in another person’s perspective. It helps you learn, reflect and broaden your understanding of the world. That, for me, is one of the most important benefits of reading,” she added.
She also highlighted one of the unique advantages of libraries: the freedom to explore without commitment.
“The beauty of a library is that you can pick up a book and decide whether it is right for you. It may be an excellent book, but perhaps it is not your cup of karak. In that case, you simply return it and borrow another one. Libraries encourage discovery and exploration,” she said with a smile.
As libraries continue to adapt to the digital age, Huism believes their role as centres of learning, cultural preservation and community engagement remains as important as ever. Her message was clear: the future of libraries is not about choosing between physical and digital formats, but about ensuring that reading, learning and access to knowledge continue to thrive for future generations.
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