National Library, Kandal Travel Guide

The National Library of Cambodia, located west of Wat Phnom in Phnom Penh, is more than just a library; it's a symbol of resilience and a treasure trove of Cambodian history and culture. Founded in 1924 during French colonial rule, the library was initially intended for French researchers but was handed back to Cambodia after independence in 1953.Throughout its history, the library has faced numerous challenges. During the Khmer Rouge regime (1975-1979), it was shut down and used as accommodation for regime members, resulting in the destruction of many books. The gardens were even used to keep pigs and chickens. It's estimated that only 20% of the library's original collection survived this period.Today, the National Library has been re-established with the help of international support and houses over 100,000 copies in various languages, including Khmer, French, English, and German. Its special collections include national documents, books published in French between 1925 and 1970, and Khmer-language materials dating from 1955-1975. The library also holds a collection of palm leaf manuscripts on microfilm.The library provides a peaceful environment for reading and research, with shelves filled with books, newspapers, magazines, and manuscripts. It also serves as a venue for significant events like the annual Cambodia Book Fair. The National Library provides ISBN codes for publishers and welcomes visitors of all ages and nationalities.