Oldest University Library
PrintQuestion: What is the oldest university library?
Answer: According to the Library World Records by Godfrey Oswald, the earliest university library was probably the Buddhist Takshila (Takshashila or Taxila) University, established around 600 B.C. This university was in the northwestern part of the Indian subcontinent, now a part of Pakistan. Very little is known about its library collection, but there are some notable relics. After Takshila University are the old Alexandria University in Egypt, and the Academy and Lyceum in ancient Greece, all having been founded in the 4th century B.C.
The oldest university library still in existence today is the Al-Qarawiyin University Library in Fez, Morocco, which was founded circa A.D. 859.
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Oldest University Library
My book about books and libraries also provides details of the oldest academic libraries founded between the 4th century BC and A.D. 859.
These include 3rd century A.D. Goni Shapur University in Persia (Iran); 5th century A.D. Nalanda University in India as well as pre-Islamic 5th century A.D. universities in Lebanon, Turkey and Syria.
Did you know that Italy’s Bologna University (11th century A.D.) is not the oldest university founded in Europe? Cordoba University in Spain, was originally founded in 10th century A.D. during the time the Moors ruled Spain.
I am currently building up updates and new information for a future draft 3rd edition in 2 to 3 years time.
If you would like to contribute towards the 3rd edition, please drop me a line.
Thanks.
Godfrey
Taxila Library Updates . . .
Dear Godfrey,
I am preparing a monograph dealing with the Greeks in central and south asia. It would be of some interest to me to hear of the new threads you are working on for the next addition of your book.
Sincerely,
Jamie Sun
3rd edition Library World Records
Dear Jamie,
I am not sure when you posted this, but I just came across it.
Can you email me on infolibrary@yahoo.co.uk with details what parts of my book project , would be of interest to your monograph on the Greeks.
Thanks.
Godfrey,
London, U.K.