Qatar Launches Its First Book-Borrowing Vending Machine

QNL’s new self-service station at Al Khor Mall lets readers check out books on the go — no library trip needed.

Publish date: since 4 hours

Qatar Launches Its First Book-Borrowing Vending Machine

In a move that feels straight out of a future where reading is always within reach, Qatar National Library (QNL) has just launched the country’s first book-borrowing vending machine — and it's now open at Al Khor Mall.

Officially called the Library in Miniature, the station is exactly what it sounds like: a compact, self-service machine that lets QNL members check out up to six books at a time, with no librarian or checkout desk in sight. Just swipe your card (or type in your membership details), enter your password, and browse the digital shelves. The machine is located on the ground floor near the main entrance and operates during regular mall hours.

And yes — it’s completely free for registered library members.

“The launch of our first book borrowing station is a milestone in our mission to make knowledge more accessible to the community,” said Katia Medawar, QNL’s Director of Research and Learning Services.

This mini-library isn't just a clever piece of tech — it's part of a broader push by QNL to make reading more accessible, inclusive, and mobile. With more stations expected to pop up across the country, the initiative brings library services directly into public spaces where people already spend their time.

The selection inside the machine will be regularly refreshed with a rotating lineup of genres and titles — from fiction to non-fiction, kids’ books to adult reads — so there's always something new to discover.

If you’re already a member of QNL, you’re good to go. If not, the process to sign up is quick and free through the QNL website.

No library card in your wallet? No problem — now the library might just come to your mall.

To read the full story for free, please enter your e-mail

Thank you for your subscription, you will receive our Newsletter shortly

Qatar Launches Its First Book-Borrowing Vending Machine

Related articles