The charity Book Aid International has been providing books to help restore the library’s lost collection since 2018. It has provided 20,099 new, publisher-donated higher education books in the sciences, engineering, the humanities and medical subjects.
Dr Sayf Al Ashqar, secretary-general of libraries at the University of Mosul, said: “This is an extraordinary moment in the history of our city. The library’s reopening is not just important to the students but to all of us who lived through that terrible time. It is a symbol of a new beginning and we would like to thank everyone who made it possible.”
Book Aid International first began supporting the library after being approached by Dr Alaa Hamdon, Mosul University professor and founder of the Mosul Book Bridge project. He said: “I have always believed that libraries are lighthouses of knowledge, providing a beacon for those who value learning. Isis extinguished that light for a time but now our lighthouse is once again burning bright. Libraries can only thrive when they are full of inspiring, wonderful books and I join in the university community in thanking Book Aid International for their support.”
Book Aid International chief executive Alison Tweed added: “There are few places in the world which have suffered a more direct attack on learning than Mosul and we are incredibly proud to have played a small role in restoring the book collection which was destroyed at the University of Mosul library. We would like to thank the UK publishers who generously donated these books to us as well as all of our financial supporters who make it possible for us to create access to books where it’s needed most.”
By Sian Bailey
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