TİKA Renovates Manuscript and Rare Works Library in Pakistan

Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has renovated the Manuscript and Rare Works Library at Punjab University, which houses over 22,000 manuscripts, as part of its Manuscript Preservation Program in Pakistan.

As part of the project undertaken by TİKA, a compact cabinet system, updated lighting and air conditioning were installed in the library’s archive section. Additionally, modern cleaning equipment was provided, ensuring the library meets the necessary standards for manuscript preservation.

The opening ceremony for the project was attended by Deputy Consul General of the Republic of Türkiye, Ali Erbaş; Punjab University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Halit Mamud; TİKA’s Coordinator in Islamabad, Muhsin Balcı; Head of the Book Hospital and Archive Department of the Turkish Manuscripts Institution, Dr. Nil Baydar, along with academicians and members of the press.

In his speech at the opening ceremony, Erbaş highlighted Punjab University’s remarkable manuscript collection, stating that the project, along with efforts in preservation and digitization, will help uncover many lesser-known works of Islamic civilization.

Prof. Dr. Mahmud noted that Punjab University holds Pakistan’s largest collection with 22,000 manuscripts and expressed gratitude to TİKA for their support in preserving these invaluable works through the project.