Palestinian National Library

Palestinian National Library
المكتبة الوطنية الفلسطينية
Map
31°56′02″N 35°11′40″E / 31.933906°N 35.194363°E / 31.933906; 35.194363
LocationSurda, Ramallah, Palestine
TypeNational library
Established2019
Collection
Items collectedBooks, journals, manuscripts, maps, photographs, and other materials related to Palestinian history, culture, and society
Size200,000+
Other information
DirectorIssa Qaraqe

The Palestinian National Library (Arabic: المكتبة الوطنية الفلسطينية) is a national library located in Ramallah, in the West Bank, Palestine. It was also known as the National Library of Palestine. It was established in 2019 and located in Surda, a village near Ramallah.[1] The library covers an area of 4,700 square meters and served as a repository of Palestinian cultural heritage and knowledge.[2]

Ehab Bessaiso was appointed as the first chairperson of the library in 2019.[3] He was later replaced by Issa Qaraqe.[4]

The library's collection includes books, journals, manuscripts, maps, photographs, and other materials related to Palestinian history, culture, and society. The library also collects materials related to the Arab-Israeli conflict and the Palestinian diaspora. It is the largest library in Palestine and at its founding held more than 200,000 books and other items.[5][6] The library joined the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions in January 2023.[citation needed]

Since its foundation, the library has struggled to obtain sufficient funding to cover operating costs and staff salaries.[7]

References