National library

The National Library of Bhutan, located in Thimphu, serves as a prominent repository of Bhutanese literature, religious manuscripts, and historical documents. It stands as a crucial institution for preserving and promoting Bhutan’s rich cultural and literary heritage. Beyond its role as a repository, it serves as a testament to Bhutan’s commitment to safeguarding its unique traditions and historical legacy for future generations.

Here’s an overview of the National Library:

Overview

• Establishment: The National Library was established in 1967 by His Majesty the Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.
• Purpose: It serves as a cultural and educational institution dedicated to preserving Bhutanese literary heritage, religious texts, and historical documents.

Collections

• Manuscripts: The library houses a vast collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts, including scriptures, texts on philosophy, rituals, and arts.
• Archives: It also preserves important historical documents, royal decrees, treaties, and administrative records that provide insights into Bhutanese history and governance.

Architectural and Cultural Importance

• Building: The National Library building itself is a fine example of traditional Bhutanese architecture, blending modern functionality with classic design elements such as painted woodwork and intricate carvings.
• Changlimithang Collection: A special section within the library is dedicated to the Changlimithang Manuscript Collection, which includes rare and valuable manuscripts collected from various monasteries across Bhutan.

Research and Education

• Access: While primarily a repository, the National Library also serves as a research and educational hub for scholars, researchers, and students interested in Bhutanese culture, religion, and history.
• Publications: It publishes books, journals, and academic materials related to Bhutanese studies, contributing to the dissemination of knowledge about Bhutan’s cultural heritage.

Visitor Information

• Visiting: The National Library is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore its exhibitions, view selected manuscripts on display, and learn about Bhutan’s literary and cultural heritage.
• Guided Tours: Guided tours are available for visitors interested in gaining deeper insights into the library’s collections and its role in preserving Bhutanese culture.

Conservation and Preservation

• Conservation Efforts: The library places a strong emphasis on the conservation and preservation of its manuscripts and documents, employing modern techniques to safeguard these valuable cultural assets.
• Digitization: Efforts are underway to digitize and archive manuscripts, ensuring broader access while preserving the originals.