Middle Eastern Libraries: Serving Communities Despite Political Challenges
In the face of ongoing regional political issues, libraries across the Middle East continue to play a vital role in serving their communities. These institutions provide access to knowledge, encourage learning, and create safe spaces for people to gather and engage with one another. Despite the challenges posed by political instability, conflict, and limited resources, Middle Eastern libraries remain committed to their mission of empowering individuals and promoting social progress.
One notable example is the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Alexandria, Egypt. This modern library, built near the site of the ancient Library of
Alexandria, serves as a cultural center and a beacon of learning in the region. With a collection of over 2 million books, the library offers a wide range of resources to its patrons, including digital archives, rare manuscripts, and multimedia materials (Bibliotheca Alexandrina, n.d.). The library also hosts numerous events, workshops, and exhibitions, providing opportunities for community engagement and cultural exchange.
In war-torn countries like Syria and Iraq, libraries have faced significant challenges, including damage to infrastructure and the loss of valuable collections. However, even in these difficult circumstances, librarians and volunteers have worked tirelessly to preserve and rebuild their institutions. The 
Mosul University Library in Iraq, which was destroyed by ISIS in 2014, has been undergoing a restoration process with the help of international organizations and donors (UNESCO, 2019). The library’s staff have been working to recover and digitize surviving materials, ensuring that the knowledge and heritage contained within the library’s walls can be accessed by future generations.
Libraries in the Middle East also play a crucial role in promoting literacy and education, particularly among marginalized co
mmunities. In Jordan, the We Love Reading program has established over 1,000 community-based libraries across the country, focusing on providing children with access to books and fostering a love for reading (We Love Reading, n.d.). These libraries, often run by volunteers, operate in diverse settings, including refugee camps, community centers, and even homes, ensuring that children from all backgrounds have the opportunity to engage with literature and learning.
In addition to their traditional roles, Middle Eastern libraries are increasingly embracing technology to expand their reach and services. The 
Qatar National Library, for example, has digitized over 1.5 million pages of historical documents and manuscripts, making them accessible to researchers and the public worldwide (Qatar National Library, n.d.). By leveraging digital platforms, libraries in the region can overcome physical barriers and share their collections with a global audience, fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.
As the Middle East continues to face political challenges, the role of libraries in providing access to information, promoting education, and fostering community resilience remains critical. By adapting to changing circumstances and embracing innovative approaches, these institutions demonstrate their unwavering commitment to serving their communities and building a brighter future for the region.
References:
Bibliotheca Alexandrina. (n.d.). About the Library. https://www.bibalex.org/en/Page/About
UNESCO. (2019, April 2). Rebuilding the Mosul University Library. https://courier.unesco.org/en/articles/reviving-spirit-mosul-0
We Love Reading. (n.d.). About Us. https://welovereading.org/about/story/
Qatar National Library. (n.d.). Digital Collections. https://www.qdl.qa/en