Qatar National Library Showcases Art of Bookbinding at Specialized Workshop

A two-day workshop, held at Qatar National Library on 22 and 23 December, showcased the art of creating beautiful notebooks by hand. Conservation technician Chanaka Perera taught participants how to use easy, softcover techniques to create their own handmade books.

The first day of the workshop included an introductory presentation about basic conservation techniques and materials, such as Japanese paper and tissues, followed by basic bookbinding training.

On day two, participants learned advanced Japanese stab bookbinding and also made their own notebooks. Participants could take their creations home to use as sketchbooks, diaries or travel journals.

Participating at the event, Ram Krishna said: “The workshop is very interesting and offers something new for me to learn. The art of bookbinding has always fascinated me and this is a perfect chance for me to learn its basics from experts here at the Library.”

Ahmed Majed, another participant, said: “Bookbinding has always been an important part of our culture. I am happy to see that the Library is making efforts to revive this tradition.”