King Abdul Azziz's Triumph

The king's decision to establish the library was proved correct, once more ith the success of sa's exhibitions during 2024 an 2025, in which the library was the centrepiece / centre of attraction

sa showcased the library to great success in several countries:

as the exhibition has demonsrated so successfully, The library, the site is invaluable/indespensible for sa for 4 reasons:

the importance that other countries/international community attach to its history

its collection of numerous rare books and manuscripts

its ongoing efforts to serve students and researchers from all over the world.

The library derives its historical and cultural significance from the illustrious history of its location, its collection of numerous rare books and manuscripts, and its ongoing efforts to serve students and researchers from all over the world.

“ The library is located in the center of Mecca, on the eastern side of the Valley of Ibrahim al-Khalil. Historians agree that it is located within the Banu Hashim valley, where houses and markets once surrounded it . After the urban development that took place in Mecca, those houses and markets disappeared, in addition to the expansion of the Holy Sanctuary and the complete removal of the Banu Hashim district. The library building is currently the only building that remains standing in the area, surrounded by wide courtyards.

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he wise government has been interested in the library since it was established by the Mayor of Mecca, Sheikh Abbas Youssef Qattan, by order of King Abdulaziz,

King Abdulaziz ibn Saud, the founder of Saudi Arabia, built the library after consulting senior scholars.

Why was the library constructed over the birthplace of Muhammad?

It was built as part of Saudi Arabia’s approach to managing historical sites, balancing reverence with concerns about veneration.

What historical significance does the site hold for Muslims?

It is associated with the birth of Prophet Muhammad, making it a place of historical and religious importance.

The Library stands as an important institution that blends history, religion, and scholarship

It was the kngs idea, in 1927 to build a library , after 1924-5 removal of dome

the king allowed the lobrary to be named perhaps the greatest nme that could be given to a library in the islamic world: Makkah Library, in recgnition of its significance for the Muslims world.

The name "Makkah Library" has been given to this noble place since 1370 AH / 1953 AD, witnessing a new phase befitting its bright beginnings, becoming a beacon of knowledge and learning. The new library building was completed by the Mayor of Makkah Al-Mukarramah, Sheikh Abbas Yousef Qattan, in 1370 AH / 1953 AD, under the patronage of King Abdulaziz Al Saud, who is credited with caring for the library. He entrusted Sheikh Muhammad Al-Kurdi with the task of caring for and developing the library in 1346 AH / 1928 AD, and his sons continued to care for it after him. This library remained one of the factors encouraging the writing and publishing movement in the Hejaz. When the decision was issued to establish the new building under the name "Makkah Library", Al-Kurdi's Library was the first library purchased, forming the nucleus of the new library.

The library was officially established in 1370 AH (1951 AD). The new building was built by the Mayor of Mecca, Sheikh Abbas Yousef Qattan, under the patronage of King Abdulaziz Al Saud, who is credited with taking an interest in the library. He entrusted Sheikh Muhammad Al Kurdi with the task of developing the library in 1346 AH (1927 AD). His sons took an interest in it after him. This library remained one of the factors encouraging the movement of writing and publishing in the entire Hijaz. When the decision was issued to establish the new building under the name of the Mecca Library, Al Kurdi’s Library was the first library purchased to be the nucleus of the new library.

Part of/Managed by the Ministry of Hajj

The Makkah Library was initially administratively linked to the General Directorate of Press, Broadcasting and Publishing, then transferred to the Ministry of Hajj and Endowments, then to the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, Call and Guidance, and finally to the General Authority for Endowments.

A number of distinguished individuals have assumed the management of the library, including Abdullah bin Suleiman, then Sheikh Abdul Malik bin Abdul Qader Al-Tarabulsi, Dr. Abdul Rahman bin Abdul Qader Al-Ansari, Yaslam bin Abdul Wahid Basfar, and Yusuf bin Muhammad Al-Subhi.

What distinguishes this collection from the above: First: It includes the largest number of works by the scholars of Mecca: its hadith scholars, jurists, linguists, men of letters, and historians, which has not been collected together in any other library. Second: Some of them are written in the handwriting of the authors themselves, and most of this type are the works of the scholars of Mecca in the fourteenth century in various specializations, such as the works of the jurist Jaafar Lubni, the multi-talented jurist Sheikh Muhammad Ali bin Hussein Al-Maliki, the Mufti of the Maliki school, the jurist, writer, and poet Abdul Hamid Quds, the jurist Sayyid Bakri Shata, the Mufti of the Shafi’i school, and other jurists and scholars of Mecca and its Sheikhdom of Islam.

it is a true record of this nation’s progress over the centuries in building sciences and knowledge.

Libraries are the symbol of a nation’s civilization and a measure of its progress. Libraries in Makkah Al-Mukarramah are among the oldest cultural institutions in the history of the Islamic world. These intellectual beacons have continued to be established and developed throughout history. The establishment of the Makkah Library during the Saudi era is part of that luminous historical chain until it became, with its historical location and intellectual content,

The book aims to demonstrate the cultural and scientific role of Makkah Al-Mukarramah through its libraries and scholars who enriched the cultural scene with their sciences and writings, and by spreading knowledge and science; which indicates the extension of that cultural and intellectual role of Makkah Al-Mukarramah throughout the ages.

Located nest to the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, the library holds immense religious and historical importance.

The emergence and development of libraries in Makkah Al-Mukarramah

the Makkah Al Mukarramah Library serves as a center of knowledge, preserving and disseminating Islamic literature and historical records.

The Makkah Al Mukarramah Library is one of the most significant libraries in the Islamic world.

and its modern role in Saudi Arabia’s cultural and religious landscape......as well holding... the library holds immense religious and historical importance... it's contribution to the Saudi policy of.........

Beyond its religious significance,

Debate

In the early 20th century, as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia consolidated power, discussions arose regarding how best to preserve or repurpose the site. Some scholars advocated for maintaining it as a religious landmark, while others suggested utilizing it for broader educational and religious purposes.

Just as in 192os King had tried to achieve a compromise between the ews who wanted to destroy BP, and the rest of the Muslim world which wanted to preserve it, stop the demolition of the bP , which the ews wanted, by comprmising and allowing initially only the demolition of the dome...so in 1950 he engaged in discussions with the ews , who wanted to obliterate all traces of the birth site, so that it coud not be identified in fyture, and Muslim world, which anted the site to be marked and saved from misuses or inappropritate developments...

Kings solution....approach to managing historical sites, was to balance respect..... with concerns about veneration. it was a highly siccessful solution that left the preserved the sites which satisfied Muslims, without the veneration the ews opposed to. it set an example...

The Foundation of the Makkah Al Mukarramah Library

When King Abdulaziz ibn Saud, the founding monarch of Saudi Arabia, took control of Mecca in the 1920s, he sought counsel from leading Islamic scholars about how to preserve the location. Based on their recommendations, he decided to construct a library on the site, ensuring that it would serve as a center for Islamic scholarship rather than a place of pilgrimage. This decision aligned with Saudi Arabia’s approach to religious heritage, which aimed to prevent the veneration of specific sites and instead encourage a focus on Islamic teachings.

Built on the site believed to be the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad, Bayt al-Mawlid serves as a center for learning and historical preservation rather than a site of veneration. m by doing so the site was reserved, satisfying the mislim ilema around the world, whilst assuaging the complaints he received from the ews.

A Symbol of Knowledge and Heritage

By converting the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad into a library, Saudi authorities sought to reinforce the importance of knowledge in Islam. Islamic teachings emphasize the pursuit of knowledge as a lifelong duty, and the library stands as a symbol of this principle. Instead of being a site for excessive veneration, it became a space where visitors could engage with Islamic scholarship and history.

The library also represents Mecca’s role as a center of learning. Throughout Islamic history, Mecca has been a place where scholars, jurists, and theologians gathered to study and exchange ideas. The presence of the Makkah Al Mukarramah Library reinforces this intellectual tradition

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designed to provide access to important Islamic texts, historical manuscripts, and academic resources. By housing a collection of religious books and historical materials, the library became an intellectual hub for students, scholars, and pilgrims.

The Makkah Al Mukarramah Library houses a vast collection of books on Islamic theology, history, jurisprudence (fiqh), and prophetic traditions (Hadith). Many of these texts are rare manuscripts, preserving classical Islamic knowledge for future generations. Additionally, the library contains books on Meccan history, detailing the transformation of the city over time.

Apart from books, the library provides reading rooms, research spaces, and archival materials that facilitate scholarly work. It serves as a quiet place for pilgrims and visitors who wish to deepen their understanding of Islam while being in close proximity to the Masjid al-Haram.

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The library was officially established in the mid-20th century and was designed to provide access to important Islamic texts, historical manuscripts, and academic resources. By housing a collection of religious books and historical materials, the library became an intellectual hub for students, scholars, and pilgrims.

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Library holdings

The MSS cover various fields: copies of the Qurʾan, recitation, tafsir, Qurʾanic sciences, Ḥadith and related sciences, jurisprudence, doctrine, Arabic language sciences, literature, history, biography and Sufism.‎ A limited number of MSS deal with astronomy, arithmetic, medicine and geography.‎ Most MSS were copied between the 10th and 13th centuries AH, but there are some from the 8th and 9th centuries.‎ There is a rare collection of ornamented Qurʾans in fine calligraphic hands.‎

The holdings of the library include some famous private collections of Mecca which have been donated to it, such as that of Shaykh Muḥammad Majid al-Kurdi (d.‎ 1349 AH).
‎Rarities includeMabariq al-anwar fi sharḥ Mashariq al-Anwar by ʿAbd al-Laṭif al-Ḥanafi (dated 832 AH) and Bahjat al-Nufus wa-Taḥliyatuha wa-bayan ma Laha wa-ma ʿalayha by ʿAbd Allah ibn Saʿd al-Andalusi (Maghribi script).‎

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A library that was visited by the poor, the rich, the general public, and all intellectuals. It was a symbol of knowledge, education , and culture . Its name became well-known among educated people, so books and collections were brought to them, and the influence spread from it, and knowledge was established within its walls . It took a pledge upon itself to be faithful to the book and author

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The library is frequented by university professors and researchers due to its availability of rare resources and the continuous growth of its collections and manuscripts. It is also frequently visited by researchers, citizens, residents, pilgrims, and Umrah performers due to its proximity to the Grand Mosque in Mecca.

The library contains many collections and manuscripts, including some of the most important private libraries of some of the most famous Meccan scholars and writers of the fourteenth century AH. These libraries number more than ten collections of varying size and importance, and each library has a special hall bearing the name of its owner. The most important of these private collections are:
• The library of Sheikh Muhammad Majid Al-Kurdi, a prominent scholar in the Holy City and one of the first to introduce printing in Mecca. His collection comprises 4,200 titles.
• The library of the eminent scholar and writer Sheikh Abdul Hamid bin Muhammad Ali Quds Al-Makki, who was famous for his jurisprudence, literature, and prolific intellectual output in all sciences. The library contains 1,600 titles.
• The library of the eminent Sheikh Muhammad Ali ibn Hussein al-Maliki, the Maliki Mufti of Makkah al-Mukarramah. His collection is distinguished by its Maliki books and rare works, with a total of 1,200 titles.
• The library of the eminent Sheikh Muhammad ibn Sulayman Hasab Allah, the jurist and interpreter. His library contains many rare scholarly publications in all sciences and arts, with a total of 500 titles.
• The library of the eminent judge Sheikh Siraj Shasha, one of the most prominent scholars and judges of Makkah, with a total of 200 titles.
In addition, there are the libraries of other scholars, such as:
• The library of Sheikh Omar al-Faruqi, the library of the Idrisi gentlemen, the library of the educator and writer Sayyid Muhammad Ahmad Shata, the library of Sheikh Hussein Arab, the library of the Ministry of Hajj and Endowments, the library of the writer Ibrahim Allaf, Sheikh Abbas Sadaqa Abdul-Jabbar, and Sheikh Muhammad Rashid Farsi.

The private collections are distinguished by their inclusion of the largest collection of heritage books in their first editions. They also contain a collection of books printed in various Islamic countries, in addition to rare collections dating back a century or more. Each library represents the authentic scholarly personality of its owner, and researchers will find a wealth of scholarly and intellectual diversity within them.

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The Makkah Al-Mukarramah Library has preserved for us many private libraries belonging to scholars, writers, notables of Makkah Al-Mukarramah and others, which has made the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Library a primary source for every researcher and a destination for every reader, due to the precious manuscripts and rare publications these libraries contain. Among the most famous of these private libraries endowed in the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Library are the library of Sheikh Muhammad Majid Al-Kurdi, the library of Sheikh Abdul Hamid bin Muhammad Ali Quds, the library of Sheikh Muhammad bin Suleiman Hasballah, the library of Sheikh Muhammad Ali bin Hussein Al-Maliki, the library of Sheikh Hassan bin Muhammad Mish’at, the library of Sheikh Muhammad Siraj bin Muhammad Nour Shasha, the library of Sheikh Abbas bin Sadaqa Abdul Jabbar, the library of Omar bin Ali, as well as the library of the writer Hussein Ali Arab, the library of the writer Muhammad Ahmad Shata, the library of Muhammad Rashid Farsi, the library of Dr. Ibrahim Raka, the library of the writer Ibrahim Allaf, and the library of Muhammad Saeed Taher.

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The library has important resources and is distinguished by its continuous and noticeable growth in its collections and manuscripts. In addition, it is visited by many researchers, citizens, residents, pilgrims and Umrah performers due to its proximity to the Holy Mosque in Mecca .

The library contains many collections and manuscripts, as it includes a group of the most important private libraries of some of the famous Meccan scholars and writers in the fourteenth century AH. The number of these libraries amounts to more than ten collections of varying size and importance, and each library has a special hall bearing the name of its owner. The books’ classifications vary in terms of content, and the classifications are often in jurisprudence, interpretation, hadith, and literature. [ 4 ]

The special collections are distinguished by the fact that they include the largest collection of heritage books in their first editions. They also contain a collection of books printed in various Islamic countries, in addition to containing rare collections that were printed a century or more ago. Each library represents the authentic scholarly personality of its owner; therefore, the researcher finds in it a scientific and intellectual diversity. [ 4 ]

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The Maktabat Makkah al-Mukarramah library stands as a two-story structure containing extensive collections of Islamic manuscripts, books, and historical documents.

The structure combines the functions of a research institution with the historical significance of being situated at Muhammad's believed birthplace.

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Library manuscripts

The library's manuscripts receive special care, having been bound to protect them from damage and loss. Most of these manuscripts belonged to the scholars and jurists of Mecca in the fourteenth century, most notably Sheikh Muhammad Majid al-Kurdi, Sheikh Abdul Hamid Quds, Sheikh Ali ibn Hussein al-Maliki, and Sheikh Muhammad ibn Sulayman Hasballah.

The library also maintains a special index of manuscripts within its old catalogs, but it has not yet been electronically cataloged.

The Center for Scientific Research and Islamic Heritage at Umm Al-Qura University obtained a license from the Ministry of Hajj and Endowments to microfilm the library's manuscripts. A large number of unclassified and unclassified manuscript cards became available. Therefore, there was an urgent need for specialists to classify the manuscripts. A committee of professors from Umm Al-Qura University was formed, including a group for Sharia studies, another for Arabic studies, and a group for historical and cultural studies. Everyone worked as a team to organize and classify the manuscripts. This work was completed in Shawwal 1412 AH / April 1992 AD. The number of cards amounts to 2,098, representing the titles of the manuscripts.

The library's manuscripts are distinguished by the fact that they contain the largest number of works by the scholars of Mecca: its hadith scholars, jurists, linguists, writers, and historians. Some of these are written in the authors' own handwriting, especially the works of the Meccan scholars of the fourteenth century AH. Some of these were copied by Meccan scholars themselves. Such as the manuscripts of the jurist Sheikh Jaafar Lubna and the historian Sheikh Ahmed Al-Hadrawi, as well as a considerable number of manuscripts copied in Andalusian and Persian script.

The Manuscripts Department also preserves exquisitely decorated treasury copies and gilded hand-drawn illustrations of some Islamic monuments in Mecca. Thematically, these collections cover all fields of theoretical and applied Islamic knowledge. The library contains 27,000 books, 100 university dissertations, and 115 periodical titles.

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Library manuscripts[ Edit source ]

The library's manuscripts receive special care. Bookbinding is carried out to ensure continuous maintenance to prevent damage and loss. Most of the manuscripts belong to scholars and jurists of Mecca in the fourteenth century, most notably Sheikh Muhammad Majid al-Kurdi, Sheikh Abdul Hamid Quds, Sheikh Ali ibn Hussein al-Maliki, and Sheikh Muhammad ibn Sulayman Hasab Allah.

The library also maintains, within its old catalogs, a special catalog of manuscripts, but it has not yet been electronically cataloged. The Center for Scientific Research and Islamic Heritage at Umm Al-Qura University obtained a license from the Ministry of Hajj and Endowments (currently the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah) to microfilm the manuscripts in the library. The number of cards available for manuscripts became large and unclassified and unclassified. Therefore, there was an urgent need for specialist efforts to classify the manuscripts. A committee of professors from Umm Al-Qura University was formed, including a group for Sharia studies, another for Arabic studies, and a group for historical and cultural studies. Everyone worked as one team in the approach of organization and classification, and it was completed in Shawwal 1412 AH, corresponding to April 1992 AD. The number of cards is two thousand and ninety-eight cards, representing the titles of the manuscripts. [ 7 ]

The library's manuscripts are distinguished by their inclusion of the largest number of works by Meccan scholars, including hadith scholars, jurists, linguists, writers, and historians. Some of these are written in the authors' own handwriting, particularly the works of Meccan scholars from the fourteenth century AH. Some of these were copied by Meccan scholars themselves, such as the manuscripts of the jurist Sheikh Jaafar Lubna and the historian Sheikh Ahmed Al-Hadrawi. It also contains a considerable number of manuscripts copied in Andalusian and Persian scripts.

The Manuscripts Department holds exquisitely decorated copies of treasuries and gilded hand-drawn drawings of some Islamic monuments in Mecca. Thematically, these collections cover all fields of theoretical and applied Islamic knowledge. The library contains 27,000 books, 100 university theses, and 115 periodical titles. [ 8 ]

A B https://www.almosafer.com/en/city-guides/makkah/historical-places/makkah-al-mukarramah-library . Accessed on 2022-03-09 .
^ See Muhammad's article in this paragraph.
^ Makkah Library Attracts Scholars and Students of Knowledge, Asharq Al-Awsat Newspaper, Issue No. 10550, October 2007.
A. B. Saleh bin Abdulaziz Al-Mazini, Makkah Library: A Historical Study, Supervised by Anas Saleh Tashkandi, Master’s Thesis, Department of Libraries and Information, Faculty of Arts, King Abdulaziz University, 1416 AH / 1996 AD.
^ Faten Saeed Bamfleh, The Use of Information Technology in Saudi Endowment Libraries: A Study of Reality and Future Aspirations, Riyadh: King Fahd National Library Journal, Volume 2, Issue 1, Jumada al-Akhirah 1417 AH / June - December 1996 AD.
^ Catalogue of manuscripts of the Makkah Library, archived copy dated March 20, 2015 on the Wayback Machine website .
^ Abdul-Wahhab Ibrahim Abu Suleiman, The Makkah Library: A Study of its Location, Tools, and Collections, Riyadh: King Fahd National Library Publications, First Series (20), 1416 AH / 1995 AD.
^ Dr. Muhammad Habib Al-Hayla, Catalogue of Manuscripts of the Makkah Library, Department of the Holy Qur’an and its Sciences, London: Al-Furqan Foundation for Islamic Heritage, 1414 AH / 1994 AD

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The Makkah Library houses more than 30 periodicals, in addition to valuable manuscripts and rare printed materials. Among these manuscripts are Sahih al-Bukhari written by the eminent scholar Hussein bin Ibrahim al-Azhari, Nihayat al-Amal for those who desire the correctness of belief and action by Muhammad bin Ibrahim al-Dimyati, al-Hadith Shujun by Ja'far bin Abi Bakr al-Lubni, and al-Durra al-Thamina ala Mukhtasar al-Safina by Ahmad al-Hadrawi. Among the rare printed materials are Tafsir al-Khatib by Abdul Hamid al-Khatib, Tuhfat al-Anam fi Ma'athir al-Balad al-Haram by Abdullah al-Zawawi, Sharh Aqd al-Lali fi Ilm al-Wada' by Abdul Malik al-Fattani, and al-Futuhat al-Kawaziyya by Abdul Fattah al-Abbasi.

Contents m.

The Makkah Al Mukarramah Library houses a vast collection of books on Islamic theology, history, jurisprudence (fiqh), and prophetic traditions (Hadith). Many of these texts are rare manuscripts, preserving classical Islamic knowledge for future generations. Additionally, the library contains books on Meccan history, detailing the transformation of the city over time.

designed to provide access to important Islamic texts, historical manuscripts, and academic resources. By housing a collection of religious books and historical materials, the library became an intellectual hub for students, scholars, and pilgrims.

Apart from books, the library provides reading rooms, research spaces, and archival materials that facilitate scholarly work. It serves as a quiet place for pilgrims and visitors who wish to deepen their understanding of Islam while being in close proximity to the Masjid al-Haram.

Newspapers and periodicals

he library also contains many rare local, Arab and Islamic newspapers and periodicals, which are still in publication today, as well as those that have ceased publication. Among these are Al-Qibla, Sawt Al-Hijaz, Al-Bilad Al-Saudiyya, Hira, Al-Nadwa, Al-Adwaa, Okaz, Al-Riyadh, and Al-Jazirah. Among the famous literary periodicals are Al-Risalah, and among the local magazines are Al-Hajj and Al-Manhal magazines, among many others. The

library's collections and holdings continue to grow to this day, and a complete microfilmed copy of all the manuscripts it holds has been provided to the library. Many citizens from Makkah and elsewhere contribute to the library's development, in addition to the purchases and gifted books provided by the Ministry. Many also donate books, tools and office furniture.

Newspapers and periodicals[ Edit source ]

In addition to books, the library also contains many rare local, Arab, and Islamic newspapers and periodicals, which continue to be published to this day, in addition to those that have ceased publication.

The library contains newspapers such as Al-Qibla , Hara, Al-Bilad Al-Saudi , Sawt Al-Hijaz , Al-Nadwa , Al-Adwaa, Okaz , Al-Riyadh , and Al-Jazirah .

Among the famous literary periodicals are: Al-Risala, and among the local magazines are: Al-Hajj Magazine, Al-Manhal Magazine, and others.

The library's collections and holdings are still increasing, and the library has been provided with a complete copy on microfilm of all the manuscripts it holds. Many citizens from Mecca and abroad contribute to developing the library's content, in addition to the purchases and donated books provided by the ministry. Many also donate books, tools, and office furniture. [ 5 ]

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In addition to books, the library also contains many rare local, Arab, and Islamic newspapers and periodicals, which continue to be published to this day, in addition to those that have ceased publication.

Among the famous literary periodicals: Al-Risala .

Among the local magazines are : Hajj Magazine, Al-Manhal Magazine, and others .

Electronic indexing

Just as the Haram Library wanted a technological solution, the Makkah Library wanted a technological solution so that it could disseminate its work on a wider scale and in more places, and be close to everyone, both near and far, while preserving that building that stands tall on that immortal historical spot.

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The special collections catalogs represent heritage and modern sources and works in the fields of Islamic law, Arabic, history, mathematics, astronomy, and medicine. However, they are outdated catalogs, inaccurate in terms of number, subject classification, and descriptive indexing. Therefore, accurate and complete cataloging of the library's contents remained the dream of researchers until Abbas Saleh Tashkandi, former Secretary of the Scientific Council at King Abdulaziz University and current Dean of Libraries, proposed the introduction of a computer system for cataloging the contents in 1413 AH (1992 AD). In 1415 AH (1994 AD), Salem bin Abdulrahman Al-Jifri, along with the heirs of Sheikh Muhammad bin Laden, adopted this project. Work began on the cataloging project, and fifteen scholars from the graduate Islamic studies departments at Umm Al-Qura University in Makkah Al-Mukarramah were commissioned to complete the project. Work continued for six months, making the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Library the first public library in the Hijaz to introduce and benefit from a computer system.

Electronic indexing[ Edit source ]

The indexes of special collections represent the sources and heritage and modern works in the Islamic, Arabic, historical, mathematical, astronomical and medical sciences. However, they are old-classified indexes and are therefore inaccurate in terms of number, subject classification and descriptive indexing until Abbas Saleh Tashkandi, former Secretary of the Scientific Council at King Abdulaziz University and Dean of Libraries, proposed introducing an electronic computer system to index the library’s contents in 1413 AH - 1992 AD. In 1415 AH - 1994 AD, Salem bin Abdul Rahman Al-Jifri, along with the heirs of Sheikh Muhammad bin Laden , took on the implementation of this project. Work began on the indexing project, and fifteen people from the departments of Islamic postgraduate studies at Umm Al-Qura University in Makkah Al-Mukarramah were commissioned to complete the project. Work on this project continued for six months, and thus the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Library became the first public library in the Hijaz to introduce a computer system. [ 6 ]

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Facilities for researchers m.

Apart from books, the library provides reading rooms, research spaces, and archival materials that facilitate scholarly work. It serves as a quiet place for pilgrims and visitors who wish to deepen their understanding of Islam while being in close proximity to the Masjid al-Haram.

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The library is frequented by university researchers due to the availability of rare resources and the continuous growth of its collections and manuscript holdings. It is also frequently visited by researchers, citizens, residents, pilgrims and Umrah performers, due to its proximity to the Holy Mosque in Mecca. The library contains numerous collections and manuscripts, including some of the most important private libraries of prominent Meccan scholars and writers from the fourteenth century AH. These libraries number more than 10 collections of varying size and importance, and each library has its own hall bearing the name of its owner. The library also contains numerous rare local, Arab, and Islamic newspapers and periodicals, which continue to be published to this daY.

Dr. Fawaz Al-Dahas, General Supervisor of the Museums Department at Umm Al-Qura University and Professor of History, said, "The Makkah Library today fulfills its scholarly role for the guests of the House of God, as well as for students and visitors of knowledge. It includes many private libraries that were donated to it, containing approximately 18,200 titles, in addition to old and modern periodicals and magazines."

Scholars and students gather in the library to study Islamic texts, research religious manuscripts, and examine historical documents relating to Muhammad's life.

The library opens daily for visitors and researchers, providing access to reading rooms, study areas, and specialized sections for ancient manuscripts.

The library gains its historical and cultural importance from its location and the fact that it contains many rare books and manuscripts, in addition to its continuous efforts to serve students of knowledge and researchers from all over the world. [ 3 ]

Something for torists/pilgrims

Visitor Experience

Although the library is not as widely visited as the Masjid al-Haram, it remains an important stop for those interested in Islamic history. Many visitors come to reflect on the legacy of Prophet Muhammad, appreciating the library’s efforts to preserve historical knowledge.

While some visitors hope to see relics or artifacts from the Prophet’s era, the library focuses on providing educational resources rather than physical relics. This approach aligns with the Saudi government’s stance on discouraging practices that might lead to site veneration beyond its intended purpose.

Integration with Saudi Arabia’s Vision for Education

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has made efforts to modernize its educational institutions, and the Makkah Al Mukarramah Library plays a role in this vision. As part of the country’s broader initiatives to promote Islamic studies and historical research, the library has been integrated into academic programs and digital preservation projects.

Efforts have been made to digitize rare manuscripts to ensure their long-term preservation and accessibility to researchers worldwide. This initiative aligns with broader trends in the Middle East, where governments and institutions are leveraging technology to safeguard Islamic heritage.

Looking ahead, the library may expand its collection, enhance digital accessibility, and collaborate with international research institutions to further Islamic scholarship.

Libraries built by King m.

The most prominent public libraries during the reign of King Abdulaziz (1932–1953) were:

The Public library of Dhahran (est. 1347 AH).
The Maktabat Al-Haram Al-Madani (est. 1352 AH), located inside Al-Haram Al-Madani, historically overseen by the Ministry of Hajj and Endowments and currently overseen by the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Great Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque.[6]
Prince Musaid bin Abdul Rahman Library (est. 1364 AH)
Makkah Al-Mukarramah Library, formally established by Sheikh Abbas Suleiman Qattan in 1370 AH after he purchased and donated the Al-Kurdi collection.
Shaqra Public Library (est. 1371 AH).
Unayzah Public Library (est. 1372 AH).
The Riyadh Saudi Library, established in 1373 AH on the recommendation of the Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, Sheikh Muhammad bin Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh, historically overseen by the Mufti, then the House of Ifta, and currently overseen by the leadership of the Department of Academic Research and Ifta.

The role of libraries in sa society m.

Libraries in Saudi Arabia have always been a critical component of Saudi culture and society. They have been prevalent in various forms in palaces, mosques, and schools for over a century and a half. Although older libraries differ from their modern counterparts, they played a pivotal role in facilitating cultural and intellectual movements and benefitting scholarships and scholars more broadly

Makkah Al-Mukarramah Library, formally established by Sheikh Abbas Suleiman Qattan in 1370 AH after he purchased and donated the Al-Kurdi collection.

Emergence of the modern library

In the decades ensuing the Kingdom's establishment, its libraries sought to bring themselves into line with modern notions of how such institutions work with respect to organization, equipment, and specialized services. These efforts not only preserved and developed existing collections but led to the opening of various new libraries, especially public libraries, throughout the Kingdom.

Libraries in general

Challenges and Future Prospects .. need for the library for saudis future

One of the challenges facing the library is balancing its role as a historical landmark and an academic institution. While scholars appreciate its wealth of resources, some visitors seek a more tangible connection to Prophet Muhammad’s birthplace. Managing these expectations while maintaining the library’s scholarly focus remains an ongoing task for authorities.

. As Mecca continues to grow and develop, the preservation of such historical sites will remain a priority for Saudi Arabia’s cultural and religious policy.

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Structural changes

This location was historically recognized and venerated by Muslims for centuries. During the early Islamic period, houses and religious sites were preserved as sacred landmarks. Over time, different rulers either maintained or altered these sites based on their perspectives on religious heritage and urban development.

Throughout Islamic history, the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad remained a site of spiritual significance. However, its structural form changed several times under different dynasties and rulers. The Ottoman Empire, which ruled over the region for centuries, recognized the importance of the site and maintained it as a place of reverence.

Following the fall of the Ottoman Empire and the rise of modern Saudi Arabia, the site underwent significant transformations.

the reviewer

1 - Abdul-Wahhab Ibrahim Abu Suleiman, The Makkah Library: A Study of its Location, Tools, and Collections, Riyadh: King Fahd National Library Publications, First Series (20), 1416 AH / 1995 AD.
2 - The Makkah Library Attracts Scholars and Students of Knowledge, Asharq Al-Awsat Newspaper, Issue 10550, October 2007 AD.

3 - Faten Saeed Bamfleh, The Use of Information Technology in Saudi Endowment Libraries: A Study of Reality and Future Aspirations, Riyadh: King Fahd National Library Journal, Volume 2, Issue 1, Jumada al-Akhirah 1417 AH / June - December 1996 AD.

Studies about it

Saleh bin Abdulaziz Al-Muzaini, Makkah Library: A Historical Study, supervised by Anas Saleh Tashkandi, Master's Thesis, Department of Libraries and Information, Faculty of Arts, King Abdulaziz University, 1416 AH / 1996 AD.
2- Dr. Muhammad Habib Al-Hayla, Catalogue of Manuscripts of Makkah Library, Department of the Holy Qur’an and its Sciences, London: Al-Furqan Foundation for Islamic Heritage, 1414 AH / 1994 AD

--

It remains to be noted that Dr. Abdul Wahhab Abu Sulayman has written a comprehensive study on the history of the Makkah Library, which is indispensable for anyone who wants to learn about the Makkah Library. It was printed by the King Fahd National Library in 1433 AH.

A Symbol of Knowledge and Heritage

By converting the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad into a library, Saudi authorities sought to reinforce the importance of knowledge in Islam. Islamic teachings emphasize the pursuit of knowledge as a lifelong duty, and the library stands as a symbol of this principle. Instead of being a site for excessive veneration, it became a space where visitors could engage with Islamic scholarship and history.

The library also represents Mecca’s role as a center of learning. Throughout Islamic history, Mecca has been a place where scholars, jurists, and theologians gathered to study and exchange ideas. The presence of the Makkah Al Mukarramah Library reinforces this intellectual tradition.

(Built on the site believed to be the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad, Bayt al-Mawlid serves as a center for learning and historical preservation rather than a site of veneration.)

--

The place on which its pillars were erected witnessed the greatest event in the history of humanity, the birth of the Chosen One, may Allah’s prayers and peace be upon him, which marked a new turning point in the history of humanity, full of light and guidance. Allah, the Almighty, wills that in the aftermath of time this noble place be a treasury …… A new turning point in the history of humanity, full of light and guidance. God Almighty willed that in the aftermath of time this noble place would be a repository of Islamic knowledge. In its location, it is a symbol that tells of a blessed beginning for an illiterate nation, and in its present content

Birth Site

It is believed to be built on the very site where the Islamic prophet Muhammad was born, making it a place of reverence for Muslims worldwide.

The Makkah Library is a cultural monument and a prominent landmark in the Mother of Cities, which witnessed the greatest event in human history: the birth of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace.

Due to its association with Prophet Muhammad, the Makkah Al Library is also referred to as Bayt al-Mawlid (meaning ‘House of the Birth’).

he Makkah Library is a historical library and a prominent landmark with a cultural impact in Makkah Al-Mukarramah , as it witnessed the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him , in its location [ 2 ] .

The library is relatively recent compared to the Library of the Holy Sanctuary; its construction was completed in 1370 AH and it was inaugurated in 1379 AH.

The Arabs both before and since Islam have a great and proud history. The

fertile crescent and the civilisation of the Babylonians, Caledonians, Phoenicians

and the Pharaohs ruling Egypt made major strides in defining the basis for

civilisation in general. Major social reforms and issues, laws, governments, and

agrarian practices were refined in the area before many other parts of the world.

Science, mathematics, medicine, astronomy and arts were encouraged and had

support from the leaders of these communities. During the golden age of Islam, no

other community in the world could match the progress and contributions of such a

civilised and comprehensive society. This history left behind valuable heritage,

monuments, artworks, documents and major contributions and various historical

notable achievements. It is with sadness and regret that many of these physical

reminders have disappeared because of neglect and careless regard to their value.

--

[[m. the area of present day saudi:]]

Birthplace of Prophet Muhammad or Mawlid (مولد) is a very important historical location in human history because this is the place where the Holy Prophet was born. The Arabs, who were merely a desert people, unknown to most of the world, rose to be a moral, intellectual, economic, military, religious and political power after the birth of Prophet Muhammad at this ‘place’. Furthermore, this revolution was not limited to the boundaries of Arabia, but disseminated worldwide in a very short period of time, so that the people who had become bondmen of the people or tyrants could be freed, and reconnected to their Real and True God.

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https://makkawi.azurewebsites.net/Book/544/

Libraries in Mecca

Abdul Latif Abdullah bin Dahish

128 Pages

The book's subject: The author presented in his book the emergence and development of the Islamic library in general and the emergence and development of private libraries in Makkah Al-Mukarramah in particular. He investigated the libraries in Makkah Al-Mukarramah and chronicled them from their inception until the modern era. He introduced the private libraries in Makkah Al-Mukarramah and their owners and what happened to them after their deaths. The book aims to demonstrate the cultural and scientific role of Makkah Al-Mukarramah through its libraries and scholars who enriched the cultural scene with their sciences and writings, and by spreading knowledge and science; which indicates the extension of that cultural and intellectual role of Makkah Al-Mukarramah throughout the ages.

Content titles: The emergence and development of libraries in Makkah Al-Mukarramah - Library of the Grand Mosque of Makkah - Makkah Library - Public Library of Makkah Al-Mukarramah - University libraries - Other libraries in Makkah Al-Mukarramah: Makkah Cultural and Literary Club Library - Library of the Grand Sharia Court of Makkah Al-Mukarramah - Royal Palace Library - Muslim World League Library - Al-Sawlatiya School Library - Makkah Scientific Institute Library in Makkah Al-Mukarramah - Teachers College Library in Makkah - Library of the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques - Public Women's Library in Makkah Al-Mukarramah - Libraries belonging to scholars and writers of Makkah Al-Mukarramah: Mr. Alawi Maliki Library - Sheikh Hussein Abdul Ghani Library - Sheikh Hassan bin Muhammad bin Abdullah Fadaaq Library - Professor Ahmed Al-Sabai Library - Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamid Library - Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Baz Library - Sheikh Abdul Malik bin Dahish Library - Sheikh Abdullah Al-Bassam Library - Sheikh Muhammad Al-Rifai Library - Professor Ahmed Abdul Ghafoor Attar Library - Mosque libraries.

https://worldhistoryedu.com/the-makkah-al-mukarramah-library/

The Makkah Al Mukarramah Library

The Makkah Al Mukarramah Library is one of the most significant libraries in the Islamic world. Located near the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, the library holds immense religious and historical importance. It is believed to be built on the very site where the Islamic prophet Muhammad was born, making it a place of reverence for Muslims worldwide.

Beyond its religious significance, the Makkah Al Mukarramah Library serves as a center of knowledge, preserving and disseminating Islamic literature and historical records.

In the article below, World History Edu explores the library’s historical background, its transformation over the centuries, and its modern role in Saudi Arabia’s cultural and religious landscape.

Historical Background

The site where the library stands today is believed to be the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad. According to Islamic tradition, his mother, Amina bint Wahb, gave birth to him in the month of Rabi’ al-Awwal, around 53 B.H. (Before Hijrah) or 570 CE. At the time of his birth, his father, Abdullah ibn Abd al-Muttalib, had already passed away, leaving Amina to raise him under the care of his grandfather, Abd al-Muttalib.

This location was historically recognized and venerated by Muslims for centuries. During the early Islamic period, houses and religious sites were preserved as sacred landmarks. Over time, different rulers either maintained or altered these sites based on their perspectives on religious heritage and urban development.

Throughout Islamic history, the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad remained a site of spiritual significance. However, its structural form changed several times under different dynasties and rulers. The Ottoman Empire, which ruled over the region for centuries, recognized the importance of the site and maintained it as a place of reverence.

Following the fall of the Ottoman Empire and the rise of modern Saudi Arabia, the site underwent significant transformations. In the early 20th century, as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia consolidated power, discussions arose regarding how best to preserve or repurpose the site. Some scholars advocated for maintaining it as a religious landmark, while others suggested utilizing it for broader educational and religious purposes.

Due to its association with Prophet Muhammad, the Makkah Al Library is also referred to as Bayt al-Mawlid (meaning ‘House of the Birth’).

The Foundation of the Makkah Al Mukarramah Library

When King Abdulaziz ibn Saud, the founding monarch of Saudi Arabia, took control of Mecca in the 1920s, he sought counsel from leading Islamic scholars about how to preserve the location. Based on their recommendations, he decided to construct a library on the site, ensuring that it would serve as a center for Islamic scholarship rather than a place of pilgrimage. This decision aligned with Saudi Arabia’s approach to religious heritage, which aimed to prevent the veneration of specific sites and instead encourage a focus on Islamic teachings.

The library was officially established in the mid-20th century and was designed to provide access to important Islamic texts, historical manuscripts, and academic resources. By housing a collection of religious books and historical materials, the library became an intellectual hub for students, scholars, and pilgrims.

The Makkah Al Mukarramah Library houses a vast collection of books on Islamic theology, history, jurisprudence (fiqh), and prophetic traditions (Hadith). Many of these texts are rare manuscripts, preserving classical Islamic knowledge for future generations. Additionally, the library contains books on Meccan history, detailing the transformation of the city over time.

Apart from books, the library provides reading rooms, research spaces, and archival materials that facilitate scholarly work. It serves as a quiet place for pilgrims and visitors who wish to deepen their understanding of Islam while being in close proximity to the Masjid al-Haram.

A Symbol of Knowledge and Heritage

By converting the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad into a library, Saudi authorities sought to reinforce the importance of knowledge in Islam. Islamic teachings emphasize the pursuit of knowledge as a lifelong duty, and the library stands as a symbol of this principle. Instead of being a site for excessive veneration, it became a space where visitors could engage with Islamic scholarship and history.

The library also represents Mecca’s role as a center of learning. Throughout Islamic history, Mecca has been a place where scholars, jurists, and theologians gathered to study and exchange ideas. The presence of the Makkah Al Mukarramah Library reinforces this intellectual tradition

Built on the site believed to be the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad, Bayt al-Mawlid serves as a center for learning and historical preservation rather than a site of veneration.

Visitor Experience

Although the library is not as widely visited as the Masjid al-Haram, it remains an important stop for those interested in Islamic history. Many visitors come to reflect on the legacy of Prophet Muhammad, appreciating the library’s efforts to preserve historical knowledge.

While some visitors hope to see relics or artifacts from the Prophet’s era, the library focuses on providing educational resources rather than physical relics. This approach aligns with the Saudi government’s stance on discouraging practices that might lead to site veneration beyond its intended purpose.

Integration with Saudi Arabia’s Vision for Education

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has made efforts to modernize its educational institutions, and the Makkah Al Mukarramah Library plays a role in this vision. As part of the country’s broader initiatives to promote Islamic studies and historical research, the library has been integrated into academic programs and digital preservation projects.

Efforts have been made to digitize rare manuscripts to ensure their long-term preservation and accessibility to researchers worldwide. This initiative aligns with broader trends in the Middle East, where governments and institutions are leveraging technology to safeguard Islamic heritage.

Challenges and Future Prospects

One of the challenges facing the library is balancing its role as a historical landmark and an academic institution. While scholars appreciate its wealth of resources, some visitors seek a more tangible connection to Prophet Muhammad’s birthplace. Managing these expectations while maintaining the library’s scholarly focus remains an ongoing task for authorities.

Looking ahead, the library may expand its collection, enhance digital accessibility, and collaborate with international research institutions to further Islamic scholarship. As Mecca continues to grow and develop, the preservation of such historical sites will remain a priority for Saudi Arabia’s cultural and religious policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Makkah Al Mukarramah Library also called Bayt al-Mawlid?

“Bayt al-Mawlid” means “House of the Birth” in Arabic, referring to the belief that Muhammad was born at this location.

Who was Muhammad’s mother, and when did she give birth?

Amina bint Wahb gave birth to Muhammad in Rabi’ al-Awwal, around 570 CE (53 B.H.).

What happened to Muhammad’s father before his birth?

Abdullah ibn Abd al-Muttalib, Muhammad’s father, died three to six months before his birth.

The Makkah Al Mukarramah Library is a library near the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, believed to be built on the site where Prophet Muhammad was born.

Who built the library on this historical site?

King Abdulaziz ibn Saud, the founder of Saudi Arabia, built the library after consulting senior scholars.

Why was the library constructed over the birthplace of Muhammad?

It was built as part of Saudi Arabia’s approach to managing historical sites, balancing reverence with concerns about veneration.

What historical significance does the site hold for Muslims?

It is associated with the birth of Prophet Muhammad, making it a place of historical and religious importance.

The Library stands as an important institution that blends history, religion, and scholarship

https://worldhistoryedu.com/the-makkah-al-mukarramah-library/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Libraries_in_Saudi_Arabia

Libraries in Saudi Arabia have always been a critical component of Saudi culture and society. They have been prevalent in various forms in palaces, mosques, and schools for over a century and a half. Although older libraries differ from their modern counterparts, they played a pivotal role in facilitating cultural and intellectual movements and benefitting scholarships and scholars more broadly

Makkah Al-Mukarramah Library, formally established by Sheikh Abbas Suleiman Qattan in 1370 AH after he purchased and donated the Al-Kurdi collection.

Emergence of the modern library

In the decades ensuing the Kingdom's establishment, its libraries sought to bring themselves into line with modern notions of how such institutions work with respect to organization, equipment, and specialized services. These efforts not only preserved and developed existing collections but led to the opening of various new libraries, especially public libraries, throughout the Kingdom.

The most prominent public libraries during the reign of King Abdulaziz (1932–1953) were:

The Public library of Dhahran (est. 1347 AH).
The Maktabat Al-Haram Al-Madani (est. 1352 AH), located inside Al-Haram Al-Madani, historically overseen by the Ministry of Hajj and Endowments and currently overseen by the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Great Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque.^[6]
Prince Musaid bin Abdul Rahman Library (est. 1364 AH)
Makkah Al-Mukarramah Library, formally established by Sheikh Abbas Suleiman Qattan in 1370 AH after he purchased and donated the Al-Kurdi collection.
Shaqra Public Library (est. 1371 AH).
Unayzah Public Library (est. 1372 AH).
The Riyadh Saudi Library, established in 1373 AH on the recommendation of the Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, Sheikh Muhammad bin Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh, historically overseen by the Mufti, then the House of Ifta, and currently overseen by the leadership of the Department of Academic Research and Ifta.

During the reign of King Saud, the General Administration for Libraries at the Ministry of Education was established after Cabinet Resolution No. 30 was issued in 1959, which mandated that the Ministry of Education establish libraries across the Kingdom. The Public Library of Madinah was established in 1960 on the southern side of the Prophet's Mosque. Libraries were established not only in large cities but also in Villages, such as Rawdat Sudair (est. 1958), Ushaqir (est. 1955), and Hotat Bani Tamim (est. 1957).

Between 1400 AH and 1405 AH, increasing the number of public libraries was a key development goal. Nine public libraries were established, adding a collection of 82,844 total documents. The School Libraries Administration became affiliated with the General Administration of Libraries, which reports to the Assistant Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education for Cultural and External Relations.^[7] Between 1405 AH and 1410 AH, the number of public libraries grew to 59, adding a total collection of 1,121,979 documents, and the labor force grew to 262.^[8] Between 1415 AH to 1420 AH, the number of public libraries grew to 71. In 1417 AH, the Ministry of Education, which oversaw this sector at the time, approved the "Public Libraries: Rules for Internal Organization” regulation, which provides for the development of libraries and the strengthening of their social and cultural position.^[9]

Public Libraries[edit]

A number of quality libraries were established across the Kingdom in the 1980s. The most prominent example is the King Abdulaziz Public Library in Al-Madinah (est. 1983), one of the largest affiliated with the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance. This library is unique due to its hybrid form: it is part public library, part manuscript centre, and part scholarly research centre. It also houses one of the endowed collections of Al-Madinah. In the same year, the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies Library was established in Riyadh.

Perhaps the most important development in the library sector in the Kingdom was the founding of the King Fahad National Library in the city of Riyadh, which began as a grassroots initiative and was later adopted by the government. The project began under the supervision of the Riyadh Municipality and was completed after three years, opening its doors to the public in 1988. The founding of the King Abdulaziz Public Library in Riyadh in 1987 was equally important.

Private Libraries[edit]

Today, 35% of Saudi families have a private library in their homes.^[10] The leading categories of books found in these home libraries are religious and academic books, followed by poetry and literature. This data does not specify the gender or age group of the individuals who own the library and thus does not necessarily shed light on the interests of particular groups or the types of books they own. Consequently, the data does not highlight related trends that may differ over time or by generation, particularly given the transformative role of technology over the last two decades.

https://www.alukah.net/culture/0/9095/

The Makkah Library is a cultural monument and a prominent landmark in the Mother of Cities, which witnessed the greatest event in human history: the birth of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. The library derives its historical and cultural significance from the illustrious history of its location, its collection of numerous rare books and manuscripts, and its ongoing efforts to serve students and researchers from all over the world.

Library website

The Makkah Library is located in the center of the Holy City, on the eastern side of the Wadi Ibrahim al-Khalil. Historians agree that its location lies within the Banu Hashim Valley, where homes and markets once surrounded it. However, the urban development witnessed by Makkah, including the expansion of the Holy Mosque and the complete removal of the Banu Hashim Valley, has made the library the only building standing in that area, surrounded by large courtyards.

Historically and locally, the library's location is known among Makkans as the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), as it is located in a historic neighborhood teeming with Islamic monuments. It was here that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was born. Manuscripts also mention that this location housed Abdul Muttalib, who divided his estate among his sons, including Abdullah, the Prophet's father (peace and blessings be upon him).

Library building

The library building consists of two modest floors in a rectangular shape, measuring 24 meters from east to west, and 13 meters from north to south, with a height of 10 meters. The building has three facades:
the main facade on the western side faces the Holy Sanctuary, while the other two facades - the north and south - overlook the surrounding area through wooden windows. The building has a main entrance on the western side and a secondary entrance on the northern side. The current library building was built on the foundations and organization of the old building, which probably dates back to the tenth century AH.

The building contains four rooms on its four sides, square in shape, with a large hall in the middle. The second floor is in the same style as the first, with four corridors overlooking the great hall. The current building is constructed of cement, and its walls are built of stone and brick.

Create the library

The name "Makkah Library" has been given to this noble place since 1370 AH / 1953 AD, witnessing a new phase befitting its bright beginnings, becoming a beacon of knowledge and learning. The new library building was completed by the Mayor of Makkah Al-Mukarramah, Sheikh Abbas Yousef Qattan, in 1370 AH / 1953 AD, under the patronage of King Abdulaziz Al Saud, who is credited with caring for the library. He entrusted Sheikh Muhammad Al-Kurdi with the task of caring for and developing the library in 1346 AH / 1928 AD, and his sons continued to care for it after him. This library remained one of the factors encouraging the writing and publishing movement in the Hejaz. When the decision was issued to establish the new building under the name "Makkah Library", Al-Kurdi's Library was the first library purchased, forming the nucleus of the new library.

Several entities have assumed supervision of the Makkah Library. From 1370-1380 AH (1953-1963 AD), the library was administratively affiliated with the Ministry of Information, and Sheikh Muhammad Qasim Hariri assumed its management during this period.

From 1380-1414 AH (1963-1993 AD), it became administratively affiliated with the Ministry of Hajj and Endowments, and Sheikh Muhammad Rashid Faris assumed its management. Sheikh Abdulmalik bin Abdulqader Al-Tarabulsi then assumed its management from 1386 AH (1967 AD) until today.

Since 1414 AH (1993 AD), a royal decree was issued establishing the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, Call and Guidance, under whose direct management the Makkah Library has been directly affiliated.

Library holdings

The library is frequented by university professors and researchers due to its availability of rare resources and the continuous growth of its collections and manuscripts. It is also frequently visited by researchers, citizens, residents, pilgrims, and Umrah performers due to its proximity to the Grand Mosque in Mecca.

The library contains many collections and manuscripts, including some of the most important private libraries of some of the most famous Meccan scholars and writers of the fourteenth century AH. These libraries number more than ten collections of varying size and importance, and each library has a special hall bearing the name of its owner. The most important of these private collections are:
• The library of Sheikh Muhammad Majid Al-Kurdi, a prominent scholar in the Holy City and one of the first to introduce printing in Mecca. His collection comprises 4,200 titles.
• The library of the eminent scholar and writer Sheikh Abdul Hamid bin Muhammad Ali Quds Al-Makki, who was famous for his jurisprudence, literature, and prolific intellectual output in all sciences. The library contains 1,600 titles.
• The library of the eminent Sheikh Muhammad Ali ibn Hussein al-Maliki, the Maliki Mufti of Makkah al-Mukarramah. His collection is distinguished by its Maliki books and rare works, with a total of 1,200 titles.
• The library of the eminent Sheikh Muhammad ibn Sulayman Hasab Allah, the jurist and interpreter. His library contains many rare scholarly publications in all sciences and arts, with a total of 500 titles.
• The library of the eminent judge Sheikh Siraj Shasha, one of the most prominent scholars and judges of Makkah, with a total of 200 titles.
In addition, there are the libraries of other scholars, such as:
• The library of Sheikh Omar al-Faruqi, the library of the Idrisi gentlemen, the library of the educator and writer Sayyid Muhammad Ahmad Shata, the library of Sheikh Hussein Arab, the library of the Ministry of Hajj and Endowments, the library of the writer Ibrahim Allaf, Sheikh Abbas Sadaqa Abdul-Jabbar, and Sheikh Muhammad Rashid Farsi.

The private collections are distinguished by their inclusion of the largest collection of heritage books in their first editions. They also contain a collection of books printed in various Islamic countries, in addition to rare collections dating back a century or more. Each library represents the authentic scholarly personality of its owner, and researchers will find a wealth of scholarly and intellectual diversity within them.

Newspapers and periodicals

he library also contains many rare local, Arab and Islamic newspapers and periodicals, which are still in publication today, as well as those that have ceased publication. Among these are Al-Qibla, Sawt Al-Hijaz, Al-Bilad Al-Saudiyya, Hira, Al-Nadwa, Al-Adwaa, Okaz, Al-Riyadh, and Al-Jazirah. Among the famous literary periodicals are Al-Risalah, and among the local magazines are Al-Hajj and Al-Manhal magazines, among many others. The

library's collections and holdings continue to grow to this day, and a complete microfilmed copy of all the manuscripts it holds has been provided to the library. Many citizens from Makkah and elsewhere contribute to the library's development, in addition to the purchases and gifted books provided by the Ministry. Many also donate books, tools and office furniture.

Electronic indexing

The special collections catalogs represent heritage and modern sources and works in the fields of Islamic law, Arabic, history, mathematics, astronomy, and medicine. However, they are outdated catalogs, inaccurate in terms of number, subject classification, and descriptive indexing. Therefore, accurate and complete cataloging of the library's contents remained the dream of researchers until Abbas Saleh Tashkandi, former Secretary of the Scientific Council at King Abdulaziz University and current Dean of Libraries, proposed the introduction of a computer system for cataloging the contents in 1413 AH (1992 AD). In 1415 AH (1994 AD), Salem bin Abdulrahman Al-Jifri, along with the heirs of Sheikh Muhammad bin Laden, adopted this project. Work began on the cataloging project, and fifteen scholars from the graduate Islamic studies departments at Umm Al-Qura University in Makkah Al-Mukarramah were commissioned to complete the project. Work continued for six months, making the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Library the first public library in the Hijaz to introduce and benefit from a computer system.

Library manuscripts

The library's manuscripts receive special care, having been bound to protect them from damage and loss. Most of these manuscripts belonged to the scholars and jurists of Mecca in the fourteenth century, most notably Sheikh Muhammad Majid al-Kurdi, Sheikh Abdul Hamid Quds, Sheikh Ali ibn Hussein al-Maliki, and Sheikh Muhammad ibn Sulayman Hasballah.

The library also maintains a special index of manuscripts within its old catalogs, but it has not yet been electronically cataloged.

The Center for Scientific Research and Islamic Heritage at Umm Al-Qura University obtained a license from the Ministry of Hajj and Endowments to microfilm the library's manuscripts. A large number of unclassified and unclassified manuscript cards became available. Therefore, there was an urgent need for specialists to classify the manuscripts. A committee of professors from Umm Al-Qura University was formed, including a group for Sharia studies, another for Arabic studies, and a group for historical and cultural studies. Everyone worked as a team to organize and classify the manuscripts. This work was completed in Shawwal 1412 AH / April 1992 AD. The number of cards amounts to 2,098, representing the titles of the manuscripts.

The library's manuscripts are distinguished by the fact that they contain the largest number of works by the scholars of Mecca: its hadith scholars, jurists, linguists, writers, and historians. Some of these are written in the authors' own handwriting, especially the works of the Meccan scholars of the fourteenth century AH. Some of these were copied by Meccan scholars themselves. Such as the manuscripts of the jurist Sheikh Jaafar Lubna and the historian Sheikh Ahmed Al-Hadrawi, as well as a considerable number of manuscripts copied in Andalusian and Persian script.

The Manuscripts Department also preserves exquisitely decorated treasury copies and gilded hand-drawn illustrations of some Islamic monuments in Mecca. Thematically, these collections cover all fields of theoretical and applied Islamic knowledge. The library contains 27,000 books, 100 university dissertations, and 115 periodical titles.

the reviewer

1 - Abdul-Wahhab Ibrahim Abu Suleiman, The Makkah Library: A Study of its Location, Tools, and Collections, Riyadh: King Fahd National Library Publications, First Series (20), 1416 AH / 1995 AD.
2 - The Makkah Library Attracts Scholars and Students of Knowledge, Asharq Al-Awsat Newspaper, Issue 10550, October 2007 AD.

3 - Faten Saeed Bamfleh, The Use of Information Technology in Saudi Endowment Libraries: A Study of Reality and Future Aspirations, Riyadh: King Fahd National Library Journal, Volume 2, Issue 1, Jumada al-Akhirah 1417 AH / June - December 1996 AD.

Studies about it

Saleh bin Abdulaziz Al-Muzaini, Makkah Library: A Historical Study, supervised by Anas Saleh Tashkandi, Master's Thesis, Department of Libraries and Information, Faculty of Arts, King Abdulaziz University, 1416 AH / 1996 AD.
2- Dr. Muhammad Habib Al-Hayla, Catalogue of Manuscripts of Makkah Library, Department of the Holy Qur’an and its Sciences, London: Al-Furqan Foundation for Islamic Heritage, 1414 AH / 1994 AD

Interior drawing of the library

SEE TWO B;UEPRINTS OF THE LIBRARY - NEED TRANSLATING

https://www.alukah.net/culture/0/9095/

https://www.aleqt.com/2017/09/22/article_1255506.html

The Makkah Library was initially administratively linked to the General Directorate of Press, Broadcasting and Publishing, then transferred to the Ministry of Hajj and Endowments, then to the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, Call and Guidance, and finally to the General Authority for Endowments. A number of distinguished individuals have assumed the management of the library, including Abdullah bin Suleiman, then Sheikh Abdul Malik bin Abdul Qader Al-Tarabulsi, Dr. Abdul Rahman bin Abdul Qader Al-Ansari, Yaslam bin Abdul Wahid Basfar, and Yusuf bin Muhammad Al-Subhi.
The Makkah Al-Mukarramah Library has preserved for us many private libraries belonging to scholars, writers, notables of Makkah Al-Mukarramah and others, which has made the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Library a primary source for every researcher and a destination for every reader, due to the precious manuscripts and rare publications these libraries contain. Among the most famous of these private libraries endowed in the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Library are the library of Sheikh Muhammad Majid Al-Kurdi, the library of Sheikh Abdul Hamid bin Muhammad Ali Quds, the library of Sheikh Muhammad bin Suleiman Hasballah, the library of Sheikh Muhammad Ali bin Hussein Al-Maliki, the library of Sheikh Hassan bin Muhammad Mish’at, the library of Sheikh Muhammad Siraj bin Muhammad Nour Shasha, the library of Sheikh Abbas bin Sadaqa Abdul Jabbar, the library of Omar bin Ali, as well as the library of the writer Hussein Ali Arab, the library of the writer Muhammad Ahmad Shata, the library of Muhammad Rashid Farsi, the library of Dr. Ibrahim Raka, the library of the writer Ibrahim Allaf, and the library of Muhammad Saeed Taher.

The Makkah Library houses more than 30 periodicals, in addition to valuable manuscripts and rare printed materials. Among these manuscripts are Sahih al-Bukhari written by the eminent scholar Hussein bin Ibrahim al-Azhari, Nihayat al-Amal for those who desire the correctness of belief and action by Muhammad bin Ibrahim al-Dimyati, al-Hadith Shujun by Ja'far bin Abi Bakr al-Lubni, and al-Durra al-Thamina ala Mukhtasar al-Safina by Ahmad al-Hadrawi. Among the rare printed materials are Tafsir al-Khatib by Abdul Hamid al-Khatib, Tuhfat al-Anam fi Ma'athir al-Balad al-Haram by Abdullah al-Zawawi, Sharh Aqd al-Lali fi Ilm al-Wada' by Abdul Malik al-Fattani, and al-Futuhat al-Kawaziyya by Abdul Fattah al-Abbasi.

It remains to be noted that Dr. Abdul Wahhab Abu Sulayman has written a comprehensive study on the history of the Makkah Library, which is indispensable for anyone who wants to learn about the Makkah Library. It was printed by the King Fahd National Library in 1433 AH.

https://www.aleqt.com/2017/09/22/article_1255506.html

he Makkah Library is a historical library and a prominent landmark with a cultural impact in Makkah Al-Mukarramah , as it witnessed the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him , in its location ^{[ 2 ]} . The library gains its historical and cultural importance from its location and the fact that it contains many rare books and manuscripts, in addition to its continuous efforts to serve students of knowledge and researchers from all over the world. ^{[ 3 ]}

Library website[ Edit source ]

The library is located in the center of Makkah Al-Mukarramah , on the eastern side of the Wadi Ibrahim Al-Khalil. Historians agree that it is located within the Banu Hashim valley , where it was once surrounded by homes and markets. Following the urban development that took place in Makkah Al-Mukarramah, these homes and markets disappeared. This was in addition to the expansion of the Holy Sanctuary, which led to the complete removal of the Banu Hashim neighborhood. The library building is currently the only building still standing in the area, surrounded by large courtyards.

The library's location is historically known as the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad. It is located in a historic district teeming with Islamic monuments. Manuscripts also mention the location of Abdul Muttalib's house , which he divided among his sons, including Abdullah, the Prophet's father.

Library building[ Edit source ]

The current building of the library was built on the foundations and organization of the old building, which most likely dates back to the tenth century AH.

The library consists of two small floors in a rectangular shape, ten meters high, with an area of 24 meters from east to west, and 13 meters from north to south. The building has three facades, the main facade on the western side facing the Grand Mosque , and the other two facades (north and south) overlook the surrounding area through wooden windows.

The building contains four rooms on the four sides in a square shape , with a large hall in the middle. The second floor has the same layout as the first floor, and has four corridors overlooking the main hall. The current building is constructed of cement, and its walls are built of stone and brick.

Create the library[ Edit source ]

The library was officially established in 1370 AH (1951 AD). The new building was built by the Mayor of Mecca, Sheikh Abbas Yousef Qattan, under the patronage of King Abdulaziz Al Saud, who is credited with taking an interest in the library. He entrusted Sheikh Muhammad Al Kurdi with the task of developing the library in 1346 AH (1927 AD). His sons took an interest in it after him. This library remained one of the factors encouraging the movement of writing and publishing in the entire Hijaz. When the decision was issued to establish the new building under the name of the Mecca Library, Al Kurdi’s Library was the first library purchased to be the nucleus of the new library.

Many entities have taken on the task of supervising the Makkah Library. In the period from 1370 to 1380 AH, the library was administratively affiliated with the Saudi Ministry of Information, and Sheikh Muhammad Qasim Hariri took over its management during this period . After that, from 1380 to 1414 AH, it became administratively affiliated with the Ministry of Hajj and Endowments (currently the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah). Sheikh Muhammad Rashid Faris took over its management, then Sheikh Abdul Malik bin Abdul Qadir Al-Tarabulsi, who took over its management from 1386 AH (1967 AD) until now.

Since 1414 AH, a royal decree was issued establishing the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, Call and Guidance , under whose administration the Makkah Library has been directly affiliated.

Library holdings[ Edit source ]

The library has important resources and is distinguished by its continuous and noticeable growth in its collections and manuscripts. In addition, it is visited by many researchers, citizens, residents, pilgrims and Umrah performers due to its proximity to the Holy Mosque in Mecca .

The library contains many collections and manuscripts, as it includes a group of the most important private libraries of some of the famous Meccan scholars and writers in the fourteenth century AH. The number of these libraries amounts to more than ten collections of varying size and importance, and each library has a special hall bearing the name of its owner. The books’ classifications vary in terms of content, and the classifications are often in jurisprudence, interpretation, hadith, and literature. ^{[ 4 ]}

The special collections are distinguished by the fact that they include the largest collection of heritage books in their first editions. They also contain a collection of books printed in various Islamic countries, in addition to containing rare collections that were printed a century or more ago. Each library represents the authentic scholarly personality of its owner; therefore, the researcher finds in it a scientific and intellectual diversity. ^{[ 4 ]}

Newspapers and periodicals[ Edit source ]

In addition to books, the library also contains many rare local, Arab, and Islamic newspapers and periodicals, which continue to be published to this day, in addition to those that have ceased publication.

The library contains newspapers such as Al-Qibla , Hara, Al-Bilad Al-Saudi , Sawt Al-Hijaz , Al-Nadwa , Al-Adwaa, Okaz , Al-Riyadh , and Al-Jazirah .

Among the famous literary periodicals are: Al-Risala, and among the local magazines are: Al-Hajj Magazine, Al-Manhal Magazine, and others.

The library's collections and holdings are still increasing, and the library has been provided with a complete copy on microfilm of all the manuscripts it holds. Many citizens from Mecca and abroad contribute to developing the library's content, in addition to the purchases and donated books provided by the ministry. Many also donate books, tools, and office furniture. ^{[ 5 ]}

Electronic indexing[ Edit source ]

The indexes of special collections represent the sources and heritage and modern works in the Islamic, Arabic, historical, mathematical, astronomical and medical sciences. However, they are old-classified indexes and are therefore inaccurate in terms of number, subject classification and descriptive indexing until Abbas Saleh Tashkandi, former Secretary of the Scientific Council at King Abdulaziz University and Dean of Libraries, proposed introducing an electronic computer system to index the library’s contents in 1413 AH - 1992 AD. In 1415 AH - 1994 AD, Salem bin Abdul Rahman Al-Jifri, along with the heirs of Sheikh Muhammad bin Laden , took on the implementation of this project. Work began on the indexing project, and fifteen people from the departments of Islamic postgraduate studies at Umm Al-Qura University in Makkah Al-Mukarramah were commissioned to complete the project. Work on this project continued for six months, and thus the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Library became the first public library in the Hijaz to introduce a computer system. ^{[ 6 ]}

Library manuscripts[ Edit source ]

The library's manuscripts receive special care. Bookbinding is carried out to ensure continuous maintenance to prevent damage and loss. Most of the manuscripts belong to scholars and jurists of Mecca in the fourteenth century, most notably Sheikh Muhammad Majid al-Kurdi, Sheikh Abdul Hamid Quds, Sheikh Ali ibn Hussein al-Maliki, and Sheikh Muhammad ibn Sulayman Hasab Allah.

The library also maintains, within its old catalogs, a special catalog of manuscripts, but it has not yet been electronically cataloged. The Center for Scientific Research and Islamic Heritage at Umm Al-Qura University obtained a license from the Ministry of Hajj and Endowments (currently the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah) to microfilm the manuscripts in the library. The number of cards available for manuscripts became large and unclassified and unclassified. Therefore, there was an urgent need for specialist efforts to classify the manuscripts. A committee of professors from Umm Al-Qura University was formed, including a group for Sharia studies, another for Arabic studies, and a group for historical and cultural studies. Everyone worked as one team in the approach of organization and classification, and it was completed in Shawwal 1412 AH, corresponding to April 1992 AD. The number of cards is two thousand and ninety-eight cards, representing the titles of the manuscripts. ^{[ 7 ]}

The library's manuscripts are distinguished by their inclusion of the largest number of works by Meccan scholars, including hadith scholars, jurists, linguists, writers, and historians. Some of these are written in the authors' own handwriting, particularly the works of Meccan scholars from the fourteenth century AH. Some of these were copied by Meccan scholars themselves, such as the manuscripts of the jurist Sheikh Jaafar Lubna and the historian Sheikh Ahmed Al-Hadrawi. It also contains a considerable number of manuscripts copied in Andalusian and Persian scripts.

The Manuscripts Department holds exquisitely decorated copies of treasuries and gilded hand-drawn drawings of some Islamic monuments in Mecca. Thematically, these collections cover all fields of theoretical and applied Islamic knowledge. The library contains 27,000 books, 100 university theses, and 115 periodical titles. ^{[ 8 ]}

Save The Prophet's Birthplace

The Fourth Holiest Site In Islam

Why was the library constructed over the birthplace of Muhammad?

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the king allowed the lobrary to be named perhaps the greatest nme that could be given to a library in the islamic world: Makkah Library, in recgnition of its significance for the Muslims world.

The Foundation of the Makkah Al Mukarramah Library

A Symbol of Knowledge and Heritage

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Library holdings

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Challenges and Future Prospects .. need for the library for saudis future

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Libraries in Mecca

The Makkah Al Mukarramah Library

Historical Background

Due to its association with Prophet Muhammad, the Makkah Al Library is also referred to as Bayt al-Mawlid (meaning ‘House of the Birth’).

The Foundation of the Makkah Al Mukarramah Library

A Symbol of Knowledge and Heritage

Built on the site believed to be the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad, Bayt al-Mawlid serves as a center for learning and historical preservation rather than a site of veneration.

Visitor Experience

Integration with Saudi Arabia’s Vision for Education

Challenges and Future Prospects

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Makkah Al Mukarramah Library also called Bayt al-Mawlid?

Who was Muhammad’s mother, and when did she give birth?

What happened to Muhammad’s father before his birth?

The Makkah Al Mukarramah Library is a library near the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, believed to be built on the site where Prophet Muhammad was born.

Who built the library on this historical site?

Why was the library constructed over the birthplace of Muhammad?

What historical significance does the site hold for Muslims?

Library website

Library building

Create the library

Library holdings

Newspapers and periodicals

Electronic indexing

Library manuscripts

the reviewer

Studies about it

Interior drawing of the library

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