Doha: Dr Stuart Hamilton has dedicated his life to public libraries for more than 22 years. He has gained knowledge and shared it at several libraries around the world, before coming to Doha in April 2017.
Deputy Executive Director, International Relations and Communications at the Qatar National Library (QNL), Dr Stuart has brought experience from places including the UK, US, Denmark and the Netherlands to Doha.
“I came here when Qatar National Library was getting ready to open for the public. I decided to took the opportunity as it was the first public library to open in this century. And of course the concept of the library with innovative technology, its services and the design were impressive,” said Dr Stuart.
Qatar is his first work destination in this part of the world, which was also a reason for Dr Stuart to choose working with the QNL. He has brought ample experience and knowledge in areas such as policy development, implementation and advocacy in high-level international multi-stakeholder environments, specifically in the areas of access to digital information and freedom of expression; education and awareness-raising of related issues with partner and opponent organisations; advanced graduate-level research and publication in areas relating to online censorship and copyright; liaison with national and international governments in regard with library functions.
Dr Stuart shares a track record of strategic and financial planning, member engagement, developing and implementing policy, delivering organisational change, creating and maintaining partnerships, managing staff, fundraising and project delivery worldwide in his capacity as the Deputy Executive Director, International Relations and Communications at the QNL.
Besides work, he finds Qatar fascinating, especially how the country handled the blockade. “The blockade started few weeks after I reached here. It was phenomenal to see how Qatar handled and the people handled the situation. In fact the blockade has made a positive impact,” said Dr Stuart.
During the past 20 months of his stay in Qatar, the social life here has also impressed Dr Stuart. He spends his spare time playing football and tennis.
