National Library of The Gambia, national library
The National Library of The Gambia is a public library in the capital housing extensive collections on Gambia and the world. The building contains reference sections, a children's library, lending areas, periodicals, and collections of historical maps and newspapers.
The library was founded in 1946 by the British Council as a lending service and transferred to the Gambian government in 1962. The current building opened in 1976 with support from the British government and became the nation's central knowledge institution.
The library carries the nation's name and reflects the country's identity as a knowledge center. Visitors experience a place where literature, history, and local traditions come together, keeping Gambian identity alive through books and documents.
The library is easily reached from the city center and offers quiet work areas for reading and research. Visitors should allow time to browse the collections, as areas are organized by subject and staff are ready to help with directions.
A digital center opened in 2024 offering internet access, coding lessons, and computer classes for all ages. This addition shows how the library combines traditional book collections with modern technology to serve the community.
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