Among the oldest books he donated is "Ekuveringe Roohu" (The Spirit of Friendship), published in 1966.
Author Ahmed Shiyam donated 700 books from his personal collection to the National Library yesterday.
Shiyam, who has served the state for over 35 years, told to Mihaaru News that his donation was intended to make knowledge accessible to a wider audience.
“When the books are on my shelf, only I can use them. But by placing them in the National Library, many people can benefit from this knowledge,” he said.
He noted that although he has cherished these books for many years, there was a risk that they might be discarded after his passing. Donating them ensures they will be preserved and accessible to others.
The donation includes a diverse range of materials including magazines, religious texts and historical books, some of which are not available in the library's current collection.
Among the oldest books he donated is "Ekuveringe Roohu" (The Spirit of Friendship), published in 1966.
"I inherited this book from my mother. this book is not available in the library. It has now foxed with age and its binding is deteriorated," he said.
Additionally, Shiyam donated books featuring addresses and speeches by former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, which will be valuable for academic research, he said.
The collection also includes four books authored by Shiyam, including two novels, a book on the Sinamale' Bridge, and one about the aviation industry.
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