Monday, 25 May 2026
Source: The Royal Carriage Museum Entrance, Boulaq, Cairo, Egypt. Photography by Mohamed Fahmy Yassen
Royal Carriages Museum opens pioneering library in Cairo
Amid the bustling heart of Cairo, a new treasure has quietly opened its doors, inviting visitors from across the globe to experience Egypt’s enduring spirit of learning and discovery.
The newly inaugurated library at the Royal Carriages Museum in Boulaq is more than just a collection of books—it’s a living bridge between Egypt’s illustrious past and its vibrant present.
This remarkable initiative—championed by Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and the Supreme Council of Antiquities—underscores a deeply held belief: museums are not only guardians of history, but dynamic spaces where cultures meet, ideas flourish, and every visitor can find inspiration. With thousands of rare volumes and an inclusive, welcoming ethos, the library stands as a testament to Egypt’s commitment to sharing its cultural legacy with the world.
The new library houses an impressive collection of approximately 5,000 books spanning a remarkable breadth of knowledge, from archaeology and restoration sciences to philosophy, economics, literature, and children's books.
Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, explained that the library is much more than a reading room; it’s a cornerstone for the museum’s role in scholarly pursuit and community education.
“By cultivating spaces like these, we enhance museums as essential beacons of learning and cultural dialogue,” he said.
The library itself is enriched by two exceptional collections: the personal library of Dr. Nadia Loqma, a leading figure in the restoration of Cairo’s monuments, and the unique collection of Her Highness Naglaa Khairy—great-granddaughter of Khedive Ismail.
Visitors will discover rare furniture and photographs, lovingly documented by Khairy’s family, alongside an array of rare books in fields such as Islamic and Coptic studies, Egyptology, and the Greco-Roman era.
Noteworthy treasures include historic volumes such as Al-Jabarti’s chronicles from the early 19th century and fascinating records detailing public works under Muhammad Ali Pasha. This is not only a library but a time capsule offering direct access to the nuances of Egypt’s illustrious past.
The museum leadership has emphasized inclusiveness in the library’s offerings: books in Braille are available to visually impaired visitors, while collections in French and English—ranging from literature and art to multilingual Qur’ans—reflect the cosmopolitan spirit of Egypt’s heritage.
Dr. Nadia Loqma lovingly noted the importance of specialized libraries for restoration sciences and the crucial resource they represent for students and researchers, especially given the scarcity of such volumes internationally. Her praise extended to the careful cataloguing and thoughtful display ensuring accessibility for all.
Momen Osman, Head of the Museum Sector, highlighted that restoring the tradition of in-museum libraries is now a national priority.
“Libraries have always been an integral part of the museum experience," he explained. "We are dedicated to enriching every museum with collections that forge deeper links to our heritage, much like the Naglaa Khairy collection showcased here."
Additionally, the museum is currently developing a digital database, with a unique QR code system that will provide visitors with more information about notable individuals from the Muhammad Ali dynasty, deepening engagement with Egypt’s layered history.