Monday, 19 December, 2016

In keeping with the UAE government’s policy to popularise reading and the declaration of 2016 as the Year of Reading, the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD)’s library too celebrated ‘Reading Week’ in November. Several competitions were held to encourage students and staff to use the library more often and to familiarise themselves with the university. There was also a used booked sale which several patrons utilised. The event came to an end with a valedictory function. Library manager Saba Gaffar welcomed the gathering and introduced the event and speakers including Mr Felix Lanceley, Director of Student Services & Academic Registrar. Mr Lanceley said how encouraging it was to see students using the library and that there was always a buzz there. Outstanding alumna Namrata Amar was invited as a motivational speaker. Dr Swapna Koshy, Chair of the Library Committee who introduced her, spoke of her achievements as a student and in her career too. Namrata encouraged the students to read intentionally and also to use the several journals and academic material available. She also thanked library staff for the help they offered while she was a demanding student. Recently The Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research (ECCSR) presented UOWD with complimentary copies of a collection of their valuable publications which included the Sheikh Zayed Book Award winning title, The Mirage. The books were delivered by a representative of the ECCSR with Mr Lanceley and Saba Gaffar receiving it on behalf of the University. LIBRARY WEEK COMPETITION WINNERS Best Guest Librarian Staff Sadaf Khurshid Best Guest Librarian Student Stancia Iona Mathias Best Volunteer Scott Ian Mathais POP QUIZ Jatin Tekwani BEST LIBRARY USER (PG) ABDUL SUMIE BEG BEST LIBRARY USER (UG) HUMOL KULSUM LAMINE MAIGA