Mohammed Bin Rashid Library: A Knowledge Hub from the Future : Illuminating Cultural Heritage with Touches of Modern Technology

Abstract

This article examines Mohammed Bin Rashid Library as a model of the future-oriented library, combining the traditional cultural mission of libraries with advanced smart technologies. It focuses on the major innovations used to expand access to knowledge and improve the user experience, situating the library within Dubai’s broader vision of developing a knowledge-based society and supporting reading, research, creativity, and innovation.   The article reviews an integrated range of technologies and services, including the Pepper social robot, which assists users in locating books, interacting with visitors, and telling stories to children, as well as the Book Robot used to transport and retrieve library materials. It also discusses interactive book displays that transform reading into an immersive visual experience, device-lending services, interactive library maps, smart shelves and return systems, and automated storage technologies designed to organize and retrieve large collections efficiently. Particular attention is given to inclusive access through Braille devices for blind and visually impaired users, together with the digitization laboratory that converts books, manuscripts, and other print materials into high-quality digital formats and scanning services that facilitate the use of content while observing intellectual property requirements.   The article further explores virtual and augmented reality technologies, interactive displays that combine education and entertainment, and the “A World in Your Language” initiative, which employs artificial intelligence to produce audiobooks and translate knowledge content into multiple languages. It concludes that the integration of these technologies positions Mohammed Bin Rashid Library as a comprehensive knowledge center that connects heritage with innovation, broadens access to information, supports researchers and diverse user groups, and provides an advanced model for the development of smart libraries.