KT Photos: Muhammad Sajjad
This year, visitors to the 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) will have the opportunity to explore and purchase vintage books, newspapers, comics, and vinyl records at the Arab Archive for Heritage Foundation's booth. The foundation offers a diverse collection from across the Arab world, ranging from dictionaries from the 1930s to newspapers and magazines from the 1950s and 60s. For Mohamed Al Sadig, the driving force behind the foundation, his work transcends mere sales. "This profession holds immense importance and demands a profound passion for culture," he explained. "It's not merely about selling books; it's about connecting people with their heritage. Each piece of old paper or publication carries its own unique value and story."
From comics like Majid to issues of Time magazine and newspapers documenting significant events in the Arab world, the booth is a nostalgic haven for those eager to relive the past. Books are neatly arranged on shelves, inviting visitors to browse or purchase them. Now in his 60s, Mohamed's mission is to "preserve the cultural memory of the Arab region" by gathering old books, magazines, newspapers, and photographs that encapsulate the region's rich history. Although the foundation was formally established in 2018, its roots date back several decades. "My family's involvement in this field spans over 120 years," he shared. "My grandfather laid the foundation, and we have built a reputation for our cultural contributions in Egypt. We have always been booksellers, a profession steeped in tradition, where we curate sophisticated materials such as literature, history, philosophy, and rare scientific editions. I aim to continue this legacy."
Mohamed acquires the necessary materials for the foundation through diligent searches and donations from individuals who wish to preserve their family histories. "Our family name has come to symbolize heritage preservation, and I take great pride in restoring damaged items to ensure their longevity for future generations," he noted. "Many people personally donate items they want preserved to me, and I am deeply grateful for their trust."
He particularly seeks out "the first issues of magazines" as they hold significant value for collectors. "These editions often mark the inception of important cultural dialogues and milestones in our history," he explained. Mohamed works tirelessly to ensure that damaged items are restored. "For example, I repair torn pages, bind books, and use protective materials like cellophane to ensure their longevity," he said. "My objective is to maintain these treasures in pristine condition for future generations."
Just as he is committed to continuing the legacy of his forebears, Mohamed is equally dedicated to involving his family in the business. He attended the exhibition with his family, including his 1.5-year-old child. "I hope to instill a love for culture and heritage in my children, just as my family did for me," he said. "By engaging them in this work, I aim to ensure that the message of preserving our history endures. My goal is to make these resources accessible, particularly for students, enabling them to learn about their history firsthand."
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