About the Near Eastern Collections

The Near East Section, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 1995, has custody of materials in all formats-from exquisite and important manuscripts to early printed books; from historic and contemporary newspapers in microfilm and fiche to political and cultural ephemera-in over 40 languages of the area known as the Near East, including the countries and peoples of the Caucasus and Central Asia.

Its Arabic, Persian, and Turkish and Turkic language collections are renowned both for their quality and quantity, while the Armenian, Georgian and Central Asian language materials are rapidly taking on the aspect of major research collections. The largest collection-the Arabic-is rich in manuscripts and in post-1945 printed materials, though it continues to acquire missing early imprints. The Armenian collection is representative of the literary tradition-in manuscripts and printed works-accomplished both in Armenia and in its extensive, historical diaspora. The Persian collection is particularly strong in politics, as well as splendidly illuminated and decorated manuscripts and early imprints. The Turkish collection, while already strong both in modern works and those printed in Arabic script, continues to acquire renowned early imprints.. Efforts to collect works published in Georgia and in the NIS (Newly Independent States) of the Caucasus and Central Asia are proving remarkably fruitful.

The Section hosts a variety of special events, seminars, briefings, exhibits, lecture series and other programs to highlight both its collections and the scholars and researchers who make use of it.

The Near East Section's specialists in the languages, countries and cultures of the Near East offer group and individual briefings both on site and on location. Queries from researchers and scholars are encouraged via mail, telephone, FAX or electronic mail.

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August 4, 2020

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