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Oldest Library in the World, Check the List of Top-10

Libraries are important places where people can access knowledge and learn. Some libraries have been around for thousands of years, preserving ancient books, manuscripts and information from different cultures. These libraries hold incredible historical significance, and their collections continue to inspire learning and research today. In this article, we will explore the top-10 oldest libraries in the world, each with its unique history and legacy.

World’s Oldest Library

The AI Qarawiyyin Library, founded in 859 by Fatima al-Fihri in Fez, Morocco, is the world’s oldest operating library. It is part of the oldest university still in operation. The library houses valuable Islamic manuscripts and its manuscript room once had a door with four locks, each requiring a key from a different important person to open. Although currently hidden from the public, the Moroccan Ministry of Culture has started efforts to preserve this historical treasure.

Top-10 Oldest Libraries in the World

The AI Qarawiyyin Library, located in Fez, Morocco, founded in the year 859, is the oldest library in the world, followed by The Librije, Hereford Cathedral Library and Francis Trigge Chained Library.

Here is the list of top-10 oldest libraries in the world:

S. No. Library  Location  Founded Year Key Highlights
1. AI Qarawiyyin Library Fez, Morocco 859
  • Founded by Fatima al-Fihri
  • Home to Islamic manuscripts
  • Part of the oldest university in the world.
2. The Librije Gelderland, Netherlands 16th century
  • Located in St. Walburga’s Church
3. Hereford Cathedral Library Hereford, England 1100
  • The only chained library with all chains intact
  • Home to ancient theological texts
  • 13th-century antiphonary.
4. Francis Trigge Chained Library Grantham, England 1598
  • Founded by Francis Trigge
5. Royal Grammar School Library England 1575 Contains books from 1480, some dating back to Venice and ancient bookcases from 1897.
6. Wells Cathedral Library Wells, England 16th -18th century Books on theology, science, medicine, history, exploration and languages collected by canons, including works by famous authors.
7. Laurentian Library Florence, Italy 1571 Holds over 11,000 manuscripts of the Medici family.
8. Malatestiana Library Cesena, Italy 1452 Europe’s first public library, housed in a former Franciscan monastery, home to 40,000 books, known for its architectural beauty.
9. Wimborne Minster Library South West England 1686
  • Second-largest chained library
  • Opened free of charge to the “better class” of people.
10. Biblioteca Marciana Venice, Italy 16th century Named after the patron saint of Venice

 

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