The Old Library, established in 1969, is the oldest English language Library in Dubai catering to the needs of the English speaking expatriate community. It is a non-profit organisation which is run entirely by volunteers.

An elected Management Committee oversees the operation of the Library and all funds raised through subscription, book fines and second hand books sales go directly back into the Library to cover operating costs and the purchase of new books.

The Committee of Management is responsible for setting down the Rules and Regulations which, where appropriate are ratified at an Annual General Meeting. Any adult Member of the library may stand for election to the Committee of Management at the Annual General Meeting.

An elected Coordinator and Assistant Coordinator manage the day to day operation of the Library assisted by a large team of additional volunteers.

The Library always welcomes new volunteers. The Library currently has a dedicated team of more than 45 volunteer staff from a wide range of backgrounds and nationalities. Introductory training is provided for new volunteer librarians followed by hands on training on regular shifts.

Librarians are assigned to a regular four hour morning or afternoon shift as places become available. Duties include manning the circulation desk, shelving and processing books and assisting library users.

Contact the Library for more information.

The Library also gratefully accepts donations of second hand books. Books in 'as new' condition are used to supplement the book collection and others are sold as secondhand books to raise money for the purchase of new books. New books are purchased monthly for both the children's and adult sections of the Library.

For more information about the Library:
Phone: (04) 341 4777 Ext 207
Email: theoldlibrary@hotmail.com