Cultural Programs for People of Determination

"People of determination are an integral part of our society, possessing exceptional abilities, and their achievements inspire us all."

• The Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan – may God rest his soul.

“MAKTABA” continues to organize a variety of cultural programs aimed at supporting and enhancing the educational and cultural development of people of determination. Based on the libraries' wealth of knowledge and cultural heritage, a range of activities is offered, including children's stories and adult books.

Abu Dhabi Libraries Programs for People of Determination:

• Khalifa Park Library:
  • "Himmat Taqra" Program
  • Contact: KhalifaParkLibraryGroup@dctabudhabi.ae
• Al Wathba Library:
  • School Visits and Rehabilitation Center Programs
  • Contact: AlWathbaLibrary@dctabudhabi.ae
• Bahiya Library:
  • "Himmat Taqra" Program
  • Lecture for Mothers: "Mom, Inspire Me… How Can I Build Confidence in Myself?"
  • Contact: AlBahyaLibraryStaff@dctabudhabi.ae
• Al Marfa Library:
  • Cultural Programs for People of Determination
  • Contact: AlMarfaLibraryStaff@dctabudhabi.ae
• Zayed Central Library – Al Ain:
  • School Visits and Rehabilitation Center Programs (Available throughout the week)
  • "I Can Read" Program (Sundays)
  • One-on-One Sessions and Language Support
  • Contact: ZCLCHlibrary@dctabudhabi.ae

We welcome all people of determination to participate in these programs, which aim to empower and enhance their educational and cultural abilities.

Cultural Programs for People of Determination in Abu Dhabi Libraries

Background

The cultural programs for People of Determination were launched in Abu Dhabi Libraries in 2017, drawing on the library’s rich cultural heritage and diverse collections. The library management is committed to developing inclusive cultural programs and collaborates with educational institutions, rehabilitation centers, and government organizations such as Zayed Higher Organization to organize cultural visits. As a community hub, the library also extends its support to families by providing psychological support and awareness consultations related to People of Determination.

Objectives of the Cultural Programs for People of Determination

• Establish Abu Dhabi Libraries as a hub for creativity and innovation in line with the vision of the Department of Culture and Tourism.
• Focus on knowledge sustainability to drive long-term cultural and tourism sector growth.
• Empower the community through a rich cultural heritage and a skilled workforce.
• Position Abu Dhabi Libraries as a comprehensive cultural and community center.
• Foster partnerships with relevant institutions supporting People of Determination.

Target Groups

1. Library Staff – Empowering Abu Dhabi Library employees with specialized training to implement programs for People of Determination.
2. People of Determination – Encouraging their engagement with the library, making it a safe and inclusive space.
3. Families – Providing psychological support through program-related sessions and assisting in educational and cultural support for their children as a free service.

Scientific Resources

Abu Dhabi Libraries boast a diverse knowledge repository, reflecting a long-standing cultural heritage. Their collections include catalogs, manuscripts, children's books, adult literature, and various references. To continuously enrich these collections, the library regularly acquires the latest publications, benefiting all library users. Currently, the library holds approximately 489,929 books, references, children’s books, and academic dissertations.

Additionally, Abu Dhabi Libraries offer 12 easily accessible databases for registered users through their digital library: https://library.dctabudhabi.ae.

As a dedicated cultural service provider, particularly for children and People of Determination, the library recommends audiobooks to support language and auditory learning. The library subscribes to the OverDrive database: http://dctabudhabi.lib.overdrive.com/, which provides audiobooks and digital stories used by customer service staff in cultural workshops.

Examples:

"MAKTABA" employs children's literature in its various forms—including proverbs, poetry, and drama—in specialized workshops for People of Determination. These workshops feature flexible and adaptable cultural kits tailored to different health needs and age groups. Through engaging and interactive activities, they aim to develop children's sensory, cognitive, and language skills, enriching their educational and cultural experience.

Quality of Cultural Services for People of Determination at "MAKTABA"

Inclusive and High-Quality Cultural Programs
"MAKTABA" is committed to providing high-quality cultural programs for People of Determination, based on the principles of inclusivity and integration. These programs cover children's literature, the activation of international awareness days, and the participation of People of Determination in various services, such as reading memberships and cultural competitions.

Skills Addressed in People of Determination Programs

Through MAKTABA’s children's books, the following skills are developed and enhanced:

• Linguistic Skills
• Social Skills
• Behavioral Skills
• Cognitive Skills
• Sensory Skills
• Motor Skills
• Pre-Writing Skills
• Grip and Hand Control
• Visual Coordination
• Focus and Attention Development

Our Heroes

MAKTABA welcomes a large number of People of Determination with various conditions, including:

• ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
• Intellectual Disabilities
• Muscular Dystrophy
• Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Speech Delay
• Learning Difficulties
• Down Syndrome
• Cleft Lip
• Caudal Regression Syndrome
• Short-Term Memory Deficiency
• Rett Syndrome
• Cerebral Palsy

The library team collaborates closely with parents, offering guidance and support to help them maximize the benefits of Maktaba's resources for their children.

Creating a Lasting Impact

MAKTABA strives for sustainable impact by:

• Utilizing a broad range of children's books to produce flexible cultural content
• Promoting knowledge sustainability within Abu Dhabi's library services
• Supporting and nurturing the talents of People of Determination
• Establishing new partnerships with institutions and organizations that support People of Determination programs

Because culture is a right for all, we are dedicated to providing an enriching and inclusive educational and creative experience for every child.