The Mohammed bin Rashid Library is proceeding as per schedule with almost 15 per cent of the work completed, said a report.

The project, which is unique in size and shape, has an architectural outline of an open book on an area of 66,000 sq m located on the Dubai Creek in the Jaddaf area of Dubai, UAE, reported state news agency Wam.

The project consists of a main building with basement, ground floor and seven floors, in addition to a central warehouse for books, stated the report, citing Hussain Lootah, the director-general of Dubai Municipality who inspected the progress of the project.

Lootah was presented the details of the project, the method of implementation at the site, in addition to some technical issues and also samples of the main materials to be used in the project.

He urged the project team of consultants, contractors and engineers to complete the project within the specified time and schedule according to the importance of the project and its vitality, said the report.

The project also includes a laboratory for preservation of books and collection and processing of materials, a digital conversion lab, specialised libraries including Arabic library, public library and children's library besides a reading corner.

A Family Library will focus on books that cater to the proper education of family members and the strengthening of family ties, stated the report.

With its huge building, the library will serve as a venue for many cultural and intellectual events as well as art exhibitions. The latest technologies will be used in building by equipping it to be one of the largest electronic libraries in the world, it added.