The National Library of Mozambique (BNM), on Avenida 25 de Setembro, city of Maputo, is a building with more than 100 years of history. It was originally built in 1904 to house the Farm. Designed by architect Mário Veiga, the structure became home to the municipal library in 1961, consolidating itself as a crucial reference in the preservation and dissemination of knowledge in the country.
Located in Maputo, BNM has played a fundamental role in conserving Mozambique's cultural and literary heritage, serving as a point of reference for both academics and the general public.
Its diverse collection, made up of books, manuscripts and historical documents, preserves essential works that are fundamental to understanding national history and culture. Furthermore, it has stood out as a research and consultation center, offering access to national and foreign publications that range from the colonial period to post-independence.
In recent years, BNM has faced challenges such as preserving collections amid a lack of financial resources and adequate infrastructure. However, the institution has sought to overcome these difficulties by strengthening digitization and increasing online access, allowing documents and publications to become more accessible to a wider audience.
In addition to its preservation function, the National Library has dedicated itself to promoting cultural events, exhibitions and lectures, contributing to the appreciation of Mozambican identity and encouraging academic research. BNM has established itself as a vital space for debate about culture, education and social development in the country.
With the expansion of digital services and the search for strategic partnerships, BNM projects itself as a central actor in the conservation of literary heritage and the promotion of knowledge, ensuring the preservation of national memory and access to information for future generations.
(By Rafael Langa)
