The Bibliotheca Alexandrina
The second largest city in Egypt, Alexandria, is most definitely known for its library, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. With the Mediterranean Sea just footsteps away, this library was built to recapture the spirit of one of Alexandria’s richest legacy; the Royal Library of Alexandria which was destroyed centuries ago. Before its destruction, the Royal Library housed works of the greatest thinkers and writers of the ancient world, such as Plato and Socrates. It was also a major centre for research and learning, with scholars from a diversity of backgrounds. It was interesting to learn that during the days of Ptolemy III of Egypt, all visitors of the city had to surrender all their books and scrolls in their possession and these were copied. With the originals placed in the library, the copies were given to the previous owners. Parts of the library’s collection were destroyed by fires and by the 8th century, the library ceased to function in any important capacity.
I spent part of today at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, which was opened in 2002, where I spoke with Dr. Salah Soleiman, an Advisor of the library. With his description of the new library, I could see the resemblance in the functions of the old and the new library. In Dr. Soleiman’s words, “this library does not act as a library in the common sense, but more as an academy.” This new library is very much a centre for research and learning, much like the old library. I was further informed that both this library and the University of Alexandria work hand in hand in ensuring that knowledge is readily available. This new library aspires to be a center of excellence in the production and dissemination of knowledge and to be a place of dialogue, learning and understanding between cultures and peoples. After visiting the library, I can confidently affirm that Bibliotheca Alexandrina is not your ordinary library, it is so much more. I learned that the library offers research materials, resources, books and scientific periodicals to its visitors as well as computer facilities. But what makes this library stand out is its incorporation of conferences and scientific meetings that are regularly held here. Each year, about two to three conferences are held here along with 500 other events.
Using natural light drawn in through glazed panels on the roof, the library is made up of eleven floors; four levels below the ground and seven levels above the ground. My time at the library was spent in what they call the Main Reading Room; a single open space with eight terraces, each accommodating a different subject section. As I looked below and above me, I could sense the quietness observed in this huge area. Each level had a number of computers and study desks, along with filled book shelves. While some were studying and reading, others were guided in and out of this huge Main Reading Room in groups, as part of their tour of the library. On a yearly basis, this library gets about 750 000 visitors, Egyptians and foreigners alike. I spoke with Humul Amrina and Ummul Aiman, both 23, to find out why they come to the library. Twice a month, these Religious Studies university students come to the library to get reference materials, to read philosophy books and to use the resources on the computers. A Medical School student by the name of Ould Sidi Elmoctar, 26, told me that he comes here to study for his exams because of the quiet environment of the library. Soon after, I was told that the library is mostly used by the students of the University of Alexandria and other local schools.
As a centre for conferences and meetings, this library welcomes people from all parts of the world, who come here to talk about different issues. In fact, from 11th September to 15th September, the International Conference for Environment, Health and Sustainable Development is held at the library. The library also provides an arena for young people to meet and discuss issues concerning their environment, such as air pollution and water usage. These include the two programs, both led by Dr. Soleiman, called the Youth for Environmental Sustainability and Better Understanding, for pre-university students (13 years – 18 years) and the League for Young Master, for university students. I was quite impressed to see how this university caters to all and how it is geared towards sharing knowledge and creating a better future, through the knowledge it disseminates, the events it holds and the numerous conferences it hosts.
Along with the Main Reading Room, the library is also home to the six specialist libraries, which hold audio-visual materials, microforms, rare books and special collections. As well, there are three museums, one for antiquities, another for manuscripts and the other for the history of science. With seven research centers and three permanent galleries, the library also has enough space for temporary exhibitions. In the future, I see this library being an important site for Africa as well as the international world as it continues to provide a ground for different discussions, which often lead to positive action. It’s quite interesting to see how this library caters specifically to the young generation; after all, the future lies in the hands of the young generation.
Link to:
-The Bibliotheca Alexandrina
Multi Media:
-Pictures of the Library (Interior/Exterior)
-Video of the Library Interior
For more information:
-Visit: www.serageldin.com
-Watch: Karl Segen’s documentary “Library of Alexandria”