What Is the Oldest Library in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah?

The Library of the Prophet’s Mosque is considered the oldest library in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah. Its origins trace back to before the fire that broke out at the Prophet’s Mosque in the year 1481, which destroyed the collections of copies of the Holy Quran and valuable books housed there, according to the book 'Treasuries of Arabic Books'. During the Saudi era, the library was officially established in 1933, based on a proposal by Obaid Madani, then Director of Endowments in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah.

The library contains a wide range of books, including those endowed to the Prophet’s Mosque, such as the collection of Sheikh Muhammad Abu Al-Wazir, and books that had been kept in Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah, some of which are dated prior to the library’s official founding.

Located on the western upper floor of the Prophet’s Mosque, the library offers a rich educational experience. It houses approximately 180,000 books translated into twenty-one languages, and includes various facilities and sections that cater to visitors. These include dedicated reading halls for men, women, and children. In addition, the library provides digital services in support of Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation efforts.