The Somali National Library is pleased to announce the completion of Phase One of its comprehensive renovation project, funded by UNESCO and supported by the Somali government.
This milestone marks a significant step in the library's revival journey, transforming the historic building into a modern facility while preserving its architectural heritage.
Completed Works
Phase One included:
- Roof Repairs: Complete replacement of the roof structure with modern, weather-resistant materials
- Climate Control: Installation of HVAC systems in archival rooms to maintain optimal temperature and humidity for rare collections
- Waterproofing: Comprehensive moisture barrier installation to protect against water damage
- Security Systems: Modern surveillance and access control systems
Impact on Collections
The climate-controlled rooms will house the library's most precious holdings, including:
- Rare manuscripts dating back centuries
- Historical government documents
- Fragile early newspapers
- Digitization equipment
Looking Ahead
Phase Two will focus on public areas, including reading rooms, exhibition spaces, and digital resource centers. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2026.