Al Assad library was inaugurated by President Hafez al Assad on November 16.1984. It is a modern building located in the western sector of Damascus overlooking Umayyad Square. This is Syria’s national library. It covers an area of 22, 000 square meters, and it is surrounded by a 6,000 square meters of landscaped gardens.

It holds a collection of ancient manuscripts and rare books. Many valuable books are on permanent loan from other institutions in the country such as Damascus’ al-Zahyria public library, Aleppo’s al-Ahmadya library, and the libraries of cultural centers and museums.

Reference: http://www.alassad-library.gov.sy