"Maktabat" explores world’s most iconic libraries on Sharjah TV

A fresh new season

Hosted and produced by media personality Alyaa Al Mansoori and directed by Mohammed Al Yassi, Maktabat returns with a fresh new look. The programme airs live daily right after the Maghrib call to prayer, taking viewers on an exceptional tour of libraries—from the grand institutions of major cities like Paris and Milan to the hidden gems of smaller towns such as Mafra in Portugal and Perugia in Italy.

Over 20-minute episodes, the show unveils rare literary treasures, including centuries-old books and manuscripts. Through engaging conversations with librarians and custodians, Al Mansoori reveals the secrets and unique characteristics of these libraries while showcasing their essential role in preserving cultural and intellectual heritage.

Exploring renowned libraries and hidden gems

In this new season, Maktabat continues to document the cultural diversity of libraries worldwide. It spotlights prestigious institutions such as the Sorbonne University Library in Paris and the Library of Oriental Studies at Sapienza University in Rome. The programme also features lesser-known yet significant institutions, including the José Saramago Foundation in Lisbon, named after the Nobel Prize-winning Portuguese author.

Beyond the libraries, the show offers mesmerising visuals of the cities it visits, blending cinematic storytelling with an evocative soundtrack to create an immersive cultural experience.

More than just bookshelves

Maktabat is not merely a showcase of books and archives; it is a vivid testament to the profound impact of knowledge on shaping civilisations and communities. Each library featured tells the story of its city, reflecting the cultural spirit that makes it more than just a repository of books. These institutions stand as shining beacons in humanity’s pursuit of learning, where history meets the present, and books serve as bridges connecting cultures and generations.