Past Events

In collaboration with Doha Learning Days, Qatar National Library is proud to host the Young Writers Program Open Mic Night Competition. Speakers will perform a two-minute piece on one of the following themes: 

Summation and multiplication as we learn in school have never been as easy as they are now. Computer scientist Nahuel González will take the participants on a deep interactive exploration of the algorithms that allowed the users of the predecessors of our current numeral system to perform basic arithmetic. We will experiment with how basic arithmetic operations have very intuitive correlates when expressed in tally notation, and we will work in successively improved number systems to understand how much these can be sped up with algorithmic improvements only made possible by Hindu-Arabic numerals and their positional representation.

Number systems and their representations have evolved over millennia, from the simple tally notation of the ancient bones of Lebombo and Ishango, through the acrophonic glyphs of Brahmi numerals, into the modern Indo-Arabic numerals with their positional notation and special symbol for zero. We will trace these developments through time and place to find that the arithmetic techniques we take for granted now were developed with great effort and ingenuity.

Join us for a creative discussion session on the book Pistachio Theory, by Fahad Amer Al Ahmadi. This book argues that the secret to success lies in the clarity of purpose and flexibility of implementation, and big achievements do not require more than a small daily habit. This is a book that will change the way you think.

Join the Library and Sidra Medicine in support of the World Diabetes Day to promote the role of families in the prevention, education and management of childhood diabetes. The event will feature an information booth and interactive activities.

November is National Novel Writing Month. Register at www.nanowrimo.org then join us each Saturday morning in November for encouragement. During this session, we will write and network with other writers.

Sewing is one of the oldest professions, starting with a simple needle and thread through the development of the modern sewing machine. By using machine to sew fabric and other materials together with thread, people could make better, less expensive clothing. Join us every Saturday in November to create your own standard skirt and take your sewing skills from beginning to professional in one month with creator Nada Jabber Al Ani.

What dolls did little children in Qatar play with in the past? What materials did they use to make them? Come along with a parent or and older sibling and make a traditional doll together. This workshop is in collaboration with Lavender Center.

Did you know that chess improves memory, problem solving and IQ? It's also a wonderful way to improve focus, flex those creativity muscles, and most importantly, kids have fun playing. Come to the Chess Club to learn the basics, make some friends and enjoy a little bit of competition.