Al-Khalifia Library new building opened

Manama, Apr. 19 (BNA): His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa has deputised Deputy Premier, HH Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, to open the new building of Al-Khalifia Library in Muharraq. The library is considered as one of the oldest in Bahrain, dating back to 1954. HH Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa expressed pride in opening the new building of the iconic library on behalf of HRH the Prime Minister whom, he said, supports the cultural movement in the kingdom out of his unlimited belief in the role of culture in building human beings, enlightening them and making them able of contribute to developing their nation on solid foundations of knowledge. He asserted that the Al-Khalifiya Library, with its long history, constitutes an important cultural milestone in the kingdom, and represents a story that deserves to be documented as it reflects the interest of Bahrainis in science and culture, as well as keenness on establishing libraries that contain books that cover various fields of knowledge and science. The deputy premier toured the new building of the Al-Khalifiya Library in Muharraq, and was informed about its sections and valuable historical books and publications. He was briefed by the President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa on the stages of the project, and on its cultural and scientific importance. HH Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa expressed admiration for the new building and modern features that match mega world libraries in terms of books and publications that meet the needs of those interested in cultural issues. The deputy premier highlighted the importance of the role played by cultural institutions in upgrading human resources who, he said, are core and ultimate goal of the development process in the kingdom, stressing the positive impact of culture on societies' progress at all levels. He underlined the importance of preserving the kingdom's cultural and civilisational heritage, and reviving historical building to remain witnesses for the coming generations and the peoples of the world of Bahrain's contributions to humanity. He said that culture and knowledge indicate nations' progress and development, stressing the government's interest in supporting and spreading national libraries. HH Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa praised the historical status of the Al-Khalifiya Library in Muharraq, being the oldest in the kingdom, noting that the restoration of the iconic library is a source of pride for Bahrain. He asserted that Bahrain boasts a long history of cultural leadership in the region, adding that its multiple historical cultural buildings stand witness of the milestones of Bahrain and its people. The deputy premier lauded the efforts exerted by BACA president and affiliates to implement the project, noting that the new building of the Al-Khalifiya Library is a new cultural monuments in the kingdom.