Sharjah obtains exclusive rights to operate libraries "Book Access" In the Middle East and Africa
Kuala Lumpur, July 13, 2017 – Sharjah announced that it has obtained the exclusive rights to operate and manage the Malaysian Book Access libraries in the Middle East and Africa region, in a step that strengthens the emirate’s position as a global center for the publishing industry, and expands its presence in leading international initiatives aimed at spreading reading and facilitating access to knowledge.
This came during a visit by a delegation from the Sharjah Book Authority, headed by Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Sharjah Book Authority, to The Sunway Library (Big Bad Wolf Library), where the authority’s Big Bad Wolf Sharjah signed a memorandum of understanding with BookXcess Malaysia.
Her Highness Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi witnessed the signing of the memorandum of understanding at the headquarters of “The Sunway” bookstore affiliated with “Big Bad Wolf”, where it was signed by His Excellency Ahmed bin Rakad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority, and Andrew Yap, co-founder and CEO of the “Big Bad Wolf” exhibition, representing “Book Access Malaysia”.
Under the memorandum, Big Bad Wolf Sharjah will develop, operate, manage and market Book Access libraries in the Middle East and Africa markets, including operational, marketing and organizational aspects, in addition to expanding into new markets with promising opportunities for growth, based on the position that Sharjah has established over the past decades as one of the most prominent global capitals of the publishing industry, and a link that brings together publishers, distributors and readers at the regional and international levels.
Book Access is one of the most prominent bookstore chains in Malaysia. It was established with the aim of making books and knowledge accessible to everyone by providing millions of new books at affordable prices.
The brand was able to redefine the traditional library experience through an innovative concept that combines distinctive architectural design, interactive cultural spaces, and modern reading experiences, making its branches cultural destinations that attract reading lovers and visitors alike.
Book Access continues to expand its presence through its network of libraries in Malaysia and Singapore, while strengthening its global mission by launching the “Big Bad Wolf” exhibition in 2009, which has become the largest traveling book exhibition in the world, and has contributed to delivering millions of books to readers in dozens of cities across various continents, confirming its commitment to spreading knowledge and consolidating the culture of reading globally.
His Excellency Ahmed bin Rakad Al Ameri said that Sharjah’s acquisition of the exclusive rights to develop and operate Book Access libraries in the Middle East and African markets represents a new achievement added to the process of the cultural and civilizational project led by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, which has established the emirate’s position as a global center for the book, knowledge and publishing industry. This step also reflects the amount of confidence that Sharjah has now enjoyed among major cultural institutions and the global publishing industry. As a partner capable of leading international initiatives, developing them, and expanding their impact in the service of reading and knowledge.
He added, under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Sharjah Book Authority, the authority will build on the global success achieved by the “Book Access” libraries and the “Big Bad Wolf” exhibition, and give them a new dimension that enhances its presence in the Middle East and African markets, by expanding its reach, building strategic partnerships, and developing a model that opens broader horizons for publishers and brings books closer to millions of readers.
For his part, Andrew Yap expressed his pride in the partnership with the Sharjah Book Authority to launch the “Book Access” experience in the Middle East and Africa region, pointing out that Sharjah has consolidated its position as a global cultural capital thanks to its firm commitment to books, knowledge and education, which makes it the ideal destination for this partnership.
He added that Book Access believes that libraries should go beyond being mere retail spaces, to become vibrant cultural destinations that inspire discovery, bring communities together, and foster a lifelong passion for reading. He pointed out that, in cooperation with the Sharjah Book Authority, the company is looking forward to creating a world-class destination that contributes to achieving Sharjah’s vision of expanding the horizons of access to knowledge and culture for future generations.
The partnership reflects the commitment of the Sharjah Book Authority and Book Access Malaysia to facilitate access to books at reasonable prices, support the culture of reading, and stimulate the book selling movement in the Middle East and African markets, in a way that serves publishers, readers, and entities working in the publishing and distribution sectors.
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