The Grand Mosque's significance extends beyond its role as the direction of prayer (Qibla) for Muslims and the center of their religious rituals; it has also served as a beacon of knowledge and learning throughout the ages. At the heart of this magnificent edifice of faith stands the Grand Mosque Library, a bridge connecting the rich intellectual heritage of the Islamic nation with the latest modern technologies, offering its services to pilgrims and seekers of knowledge from all corners of the earth.
A rich history of knowledge within the precincts of the Holy Mosque
The interest in books and libraries within the precincts of the Grand Mosque dates back centuries, with the Grand Mosque Library being an extension of a scholarly legacy that began in the second century AH. Mecca was a center for scholarly circles and lessons where scholars and students of knowledge gathered. Over time, the concept of preserving books and manuscripts evolved, culminating in the establishment of organized libraries. The current library, established in its modern form by order of His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, then President General of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque, is a continuation of this great cultural heritage and an embodiment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to disseminating sound Islamic knowledge.
A modern cultural beacon with world-class standards
The library was inaugurated in its current form on the 22nd of Rajab, 1434 AH, under the generous patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Khalid Al-Faisal, Governor of Makkah Region. Strategically located within the Grand Mosque, the library occupies over 800 square meters on the second floor of the King Fahd Expansion – may God have mercy on him – making it easily accessible to visitors, pilgrims, and Umrah performers. The library houses a valuable collection of approximately 30,000 volumes and nearly 5,600 titles, covering various branches of knowledge, including Quranic and Prophetic sciences, jurisprudence, Islamic history, Arabic language and literature, biographies, and other general knowledge that enriches the reader's intellect.
Integrated services for visitors to the Holy Mosque
The library aims to provide a comprehensive educational and cultural experience for its visitors, who number over 2,500 weekly. To achieve this goal, the library offers a range of modern services that cater to the needs of diverse groups, including:
- A spacious reading room: provides a quiet and suitable environment for reading and research.
- Digital services: The ability to browse digital books and listen to audio materials such as sermons, lessons, and recorded Quranic recitations from the Two Holy Mosques.
- Copying and photocopying services: Providing digital copying services for available books and manuscripts and a self-photocopying service.
- Services for people with special needs: Providing special facilities and materials to ensure that this precious group benefits from the treasures of the library.
- Inquiry Service: Helping researchers and pioneers access the required information and resources efficiently and quickly.
Strategic importance and global impact
The importance of the Grand Mosque Library transcends its physical boundaries, serving as a beacon of cultural and intellectual influence for the entire Muslim world. It not only serves the residents of Mecca and the Kingdom, but also opens its doors to millions of Muslims from all corners of the earth, offering them a wealth of knowledge to enrich their spiritual journey. Furthermore, it plays a vital role in preserving and disseminating Islamic heritage, providing a reliable resource for researchers and students in both Islamic and humanistic sciences, thus reinforcing the Kingdom's position as the beating heart of the Muslim world and a faithful guardian of its heritage and culture.
