Amman, 16 May — Abdul Hameed Shoman Library continues to bring people together around books, building a community that values reading, open dialogue, and the exchange of ideas.
Nizar Al-Hmoud, Director of the Public Library, spoke about how libraries help people of all backgrounds develop a love for reading — through events like reading marathons, various programs, and reading clubs that bring people closer together and support their personal growth. He pointed out that reading clubs are about more than discussing books; they are places where people form real connections and grow as individuals.
The wide range of clubs at Shoman — covering Arabic and international literature, Jordanian books, and the humanities — shows the library’s dedication to catering to different tastes and helping readers broaden their perspectives. Al-Hmoud added that these clubs encourage people to read regularly, think critically, communicate better, and take care of their mental well-being. Regular reading, he noted, also helps with memory and focus.
From 2015 to 2025, the library hosted 23 reading clubs and initiatives across a variety of fields — a clear sign of its ongoing commitment to cultural programming.
Some of the library’s most active clubs include:
• Istirahet Ma’refeh (Knowledge Break) (est. 2018) — 76 sessions, 693 participants, focused on Arabic and international novels.
• “Noon for Books” (est. 2023) — 24 sessions, 576 participants, dedicated to Jordanian literature.
• Shoman Reading Club (est. 2020, opened to the public in 2022) — the library’s most active club, with 262 sessions and 2,738 participants.
• “Amman Reading Club” (est. 2024) — explores literary works set in Amman, connecting books with the city’s identity.
• Naguib Mahfouz Reading Club (est. 2025) — 31 sessions, 401 participants, taking a closer look at his novels, characters, and themes.
• Humanities Reading Club (est. 2025) — 6 sessions, 82 participants, covering philosophy, sociology, psychology, and cultural history.
Those involved in these clubs shared what makes them special. Osayed Al-Houtari, founder of “Noon for Books,” described reading as a tool that shapes how we think and feel, and praised the Shoman Foundation for its role in promoting a reading culture through programs, competitions, and awards. Dana Joudeh, a reading club coordinator, noted that in a world where screens often replace real conversation, reading clubs bring back genuine human connection — encouraging people to think, share, and listen. Coordinators of the “Istirahet Ma’refeh” (Knowledge Break) initiative added that these clubs create a shared experience that goes beyond the text, building friendships that last.
Alaa Khalil, founder of “Manara” — the first Arabic platform for reviewing young adult books — spoke about reading as a way for young people to understand themselves and the world around them. She believes in guiding young readers to find answers on their own rather than having them handed over. Through its partnership with the Shoman Foundation, Manara has been able to hold discussion sessions and provide books for young readers. Khalil stressed that reading initiatives are not a bonus — they are a necessity, and they need the right environment to thrive.
Al-Hmoud wrapped up by reaffirming that the library’s mission goes beyond housing books. It is a living space for conversation, reflection, and ideas — one that aims to make reading a natural part of everyday life.