The Destruction of a Nation's Literary Heritage: Libraries in Bosnia and Hercegovina,with Special Reference to the National and University Library

Abstract

Bosnian libraries have varied origins, but many have suffered in the country's turbulent history and religious conflicts. The National and University Library (which was given that name in 1972) was founded in 1945, on the basis of existing collections. In 1952 it began functioning as the country's main research library and the library of the University of Sarajevo (established in 1949), and built up rich and important collections. Together with numerous other libraries, it was devastated in the recent war as a deliberate act, and 90% of its stock was destroyed. The salvaged 10% is poorly housed and largely inaccessible, but the library still functions with its remaining 60 staff (of the 100 plus it had in 1992). The main aim is now to build a modern library combining information technology with traditional services. International support is helping to restore the library, but much more money is needed to provide suitable buildings, establish worldwide links with other libraries, build up collections and train staff.