10 Things to Do at the Bamako National Library (Bibliothèque Nationale de Bamako)
Located in the heart of Mali’s capital city, the Bamako National Library (Bibliothèque Nationale de Bamako) is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Malian culture and history. Established in 1962, the library is the largest in the country and houses a wealth of information on the region’s past and present. Here are 10 things you can do at the Bamako National Library.
1. Explore the Collection: The library’s collection consists of over 300,000 volumes, including books, periodicals, newspapers, and other documents. It is the largest collection of Malian literature and documents in the country and is a great place to find out more about the history and culture of Mali.
2. Visit the Rare Books Room: The Rare Books Room is located in the library’s basement and houses a collection of rare and valuable books. It is the perfect place to find out more about Mali’s past and to get a glimpse of some of the country’s most precious documents.
3. Take a Guided Tour: The library offers guided tours of its facilities and collections. These tours are a great way to learn more about the library and its holdings.
4. Attend a Lecture or Workshop: The library hosts a variety of lectures and workshops throughout the year. These events are a great way to learn more about Mali’s culture and history.
5. Visit the Children’s Library: The library also has a dedicated children’s library, which offers a variety of books, films, and activities for younger visitors.
6. Borrow Books: Visitors can borrow books from the library’s collection. All you need is a valid ID and a library card.
7. Use the Internet: The library also offers free internet access to visitors. You can use the computers to do research, access online resources, and more.
8. Visit the Reading Room: The library’s reading room is a great place to relax and read. It is open to visitors from 8am to 5pm every day.
9. Visit the Art Gallery: The library’s art gallery is a great place to admire the work of local artists. It is open from 9am to 5pm every day.
10. Attend a Special Event: The library also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year. These events are a great way to learn more about the library and its collections.
The Bamako National Library is a great place to explore Mali’s culture and history. Whether you’re looking to borrow books, attend a lecture, or just relax in the reading room, the library has something for everyone.