How to be a Member of the Qatar National Library

Book lovers rejoice! The Qatar National Library (QNL) has opened this November. Qatar citizens and residents are eligible to borrow provided they have a library card.

There are available books from children to adults. There are also online resources for streaming music and videos for members. The library also offers creative activities from time to time.

Photo credit: QNL FB page

Membership Guidelines at the Qatar Library

Qatar citizens and residents can become a member. Membership category is classified as (1) children and teens (0-17 years old) and (2) all other users. The steps are as follows:

All other users (For 18 years old and above)

  • Fill out the online registration form found at the QNL website
  • Wait for the auto-generated barcode number
  • Email a copy of valid Qatari ID/RP (both sides) to circreg@qnl.qa
  • Wait for the Barcode and PIN number, which will be sent by registered mail
  • Bring the valid Qatari ID/RP to the User Services Desk of the Library to receive the membership card

Children & Teens (For 0-17 years old)

  • Fill out the online registration form found at the QNL website
  • Ask the parent or guardian to fill out and sign the Terms and Conditions Form
  • Scan the signed Terms and Conditions Form together with the child’s valid Qatari ID/RP (both sides) or passport and email to circreg@qnl.qa
  • Or submit the documents mentioned above to the library’s User Services Desk and receive the membership card

Library membership is valid as long as one’s Qatari ID/RP is valid. Children and Teens can borrow up to 10 books for 21 days; 2 DVDs for 7 days; and 1 CD-ROM for 7 days. Meanwhile, other users can borrow up to four books for 21 days, 2 DVDs for 7 days, 1 learning kit for 7 days and 1 CD-ROM for 7 days.

The borrowed materials can be returned through the 24-hour drive through Book Drop station in front of the main Library entrance, seven return stations inside the library or at the User Services Desk.

Members can also request to have a particular item on hold or as reserve. This can be done by logging to one’s account. On the other hand, there will be corresponding fines and penalties for failure to return items on time, or for loss and damage of library materials.

The library also features an Innovation Station that focuses on encouraging creativity, inspiration, collaboration and engagement. Members can have free access to different creative areas such as 3D printing, recording studio, virtual reality accessories, among others. Even Lego lovers will surely enjoy the activities offered.