First Kurdish library opens on Baghdad's Mutanabbi Street
The first Kurdish library opened in the Iraqi capital's historic cultural center has begun serving readers and literature enthusiasts in the region.
The Newruz Library, the first Kurdish library, has been established on Mutanabbi Street, Baghdad's cultural hub, with the aim of spreading Kurdish culture and providing resources to readers.
A First on the Cultural Street
In an unprecedented step at the cultural heart of Baghdad, Mutanabbi Street, the first Kurdish library has been put into service. Opened on a street home to dozens of Arabic libraries, the Newruz Library aims to be an important resource center for Kurdish readers in the region.
Rich Collection of Works
Dozens of works written in Kurdish and Arabic on Kurdish history, revolution, art, language, and culture are offered to readers at the Newruz Library. Library owner Huseyin Kulihan stated that he brought the books from Kurdistan.
Expectation of Support from the Administration
Library founder Huseyin Kulihan stated that there were previously no Kurdish resources available in Baghdad. Kulihan requested support and assistance in book procurement from the Kurdistan Region Government.
Significance for Feyli Kurds
The opening created great joy among hundreds of thousands of Kurdish citizens living in Baghdad, particularly the Feyli Kurds. The opening of such a center after the repressive policies of past regimes is seen as very necessary.
Historic Mutanabbi Street
Mutanabbi Street, which has been a meeting point for writers, intellectuals, and second-hand booksellers for centuries, hosts thousands of readers every Friday. Throughout history, the presence of Kurdish resources on this street has been extremely rare or nonexistent.