Gazi Husrev-beg's Library — Attraction in City of Sarajevo

I am using the library to conduct research for my diploma thesis and have traveled from abroad specifically to access literature on site. I scheduled my visits during my vacation and have been to the library four times so far. Unfortunately, during each visit, it was difficult to obtain clear information about the borrowing and usage procedures.

The online search for available titles works well — this is a major advantage. However, once on site, neither the borrowing process nor the user rules are clearly displayed. There are only two daily time slots during which books can be provided — one at 9:00 AM and another around 1:30 PM. If you miss the first slot by even a few minutes, you must wait for the next. I was informed of this rather abruptly during my second visit.

The usage conditions for the books are also difficult to understand. Only four books can be viewed per appointment — borrowing or photographing them is not permitted. Copies may be requested for a fee, but during my last visit, I was told that only up to 10% of a book may be printed. I explained that Bosnian is not my native language and that I need the materials solely for academic use. I asked whether it would be possible to sign a declaration confirming that I would not distribute the content and that I need the copies to translate and study them at home, but this request was ignored. I was simply told, with a smile, that I could take my concerns to the director — who, however, is currently on vacation.

As someone who does not live locally and does not speak Bosnian fluently, clearer communication and more flexible handling would be extremely helpful for international researchers. The current system makes it very difficult to carry out structured and effective academic work — even though the library holds valuable resources that were donated precisely to support open access...

A deeply disappointing and insulting experience

I visited the Gazi Husrev-beg Library with high expectations, eager to explore one of Sarajevo’s most respected institutions. Unfortunately, what awaited me at the information counter was not knowledge or hospitality—but sheer arrogance and rudeness.

The receptionist treated me with an attitude so dismissive and cold, it was as if my presence alone was an inconvenience. When I kindly inquired whether the library’s museum section was open to the public, I was met with hostility and contempt. She not only refused me entry in a demeaning manner, but when I asked if I could return another time, she snapped with a response that was both inappropriate and offensive. Her exact words made it clear that she held prejudice and disdain, with no sense of professionalism or basic human decency.

Such behavior is unacceptable in any public institution—let alone one that claims to represent heritage and scholarship. This was not a simple case of bad service; it was a blatant display of arrogance, meanness, and a disgrace to the reputation of the library.

I urge the administration to take this seriously. A place of such cultural significance should not be represented by individuals who belittle, insult, or alienate visitors. This kind of treatment drives people away and leaves a lasting negative impression.

Until this is addressed, I will strongly discourage anyone from visiting. No one deserves to be...

According to the will of Gazi Husrev-bey from 1537 (26. rajab 943) this library was established as a special cultural and research institution for the fields of Islamic sciences, Islamic cultural heritage and other similar scientific disciplines. The date of the will is taken as a founding year of the library.

It was part of Kurshumli Madresa until a special area was built for it in Bey’s Mosque in 1863.

As the library’s collection continued to grow, it was later moved to a building next to the Emperor’s Mosque in 1935, which was in use until the war started in 1992.

After the war, the library was moved to a building next to the girls’ quarters of Gazi Husrev Bey’s Madresa in Drvenija and then, in 2013, it was moved to a specially designed facility in the heart of Baščaršija.

The library’s collection includes approximately 100,000 manuscripts, books, journals and various documents written in Arabic, Turkish, Farsi, Bosnian and other European languages.

The library also has a museum with more than 1,200 items on display, all of which testify to the rich cultural and religious traditions of Muslims in Bosnia and...