Muscat – The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth has launched the fourth edition of the ‘Excellence Competition for Private Libraries and Cultural Centres’ for 2025, under the theme ‘Towards Smart Private Libraries: Knowledge Horizons Programme’. The competition, which coincides with Arab Libraries Day on March 10, aims to enhance the role of libraries and civil cultural centres in Omani society.

The initiative seeks to support and develop private libraries by encouraging them to adopt modern digital solutions. This year’s competition focuses on evaluating libraries and cultural centres based on their library management and community impact, using the Knowledge Horizons Programme.

As part of its ongoing efforts to improve the knowledge sector, the Ministry has introduced the Knowledge Horizons System—an integrated electronic platform designed to manage private libraries and cultural centres. The system enables library supervisors to efficiently oversee various technical operations through a user-friendly digital dashboard. It also facilitates indexing, classification, and access to library services via internal networks or the Internet.

The competition is open to registered private libraries and cultural centres across Oman that hold a valid licence and are actively engaged with the Knowledge Horizons Programme.

The Ministry has set August 15, 2025, as the deadline for submissions. The initiative aims to encourage innovation in library services, strengthen their cultural role, and foster competition among institutions to deliver high-quality knowledge and community engagement.