Numan Efendi Public Library (Sivas Industrial School)

The origin of the structure dates back to the 1860s, to the "Islahhane" opened in Taşhan. Here, orphaned children were taught tailoring and shoemaking. Construction of its own building began in 1894. Originally planned as a Gureba Hospital and deemed too large, the structure was transferred to the Industrial School in 1903. Its marble inscription mentions the name of Abdülhamid II and the then Governor of Sivas, Reşid Akif Pasha. In August 1903, a street was opened from the government mansion to this location for the Hamidiye Art and Agriculture Fair held in the courtyard; today's Rahmi Günay Street is the continuation of this street. Throughout history, the building also served as a women's prison and a museum, and was converted into a library in 2025.

The library opened in the autumn of 2025, so it is still a new venue. It can be visited year-round. For those coming to study, weekday mornings are quieter, while weekends, especially evenings, can be crowded. Since the building is wooden, heating can be insufficient in some areas during winter; the front facades are more comfortable as they receive air conditioning and sunlight.

The building is a ten-minute walk from Sivas city square, located on Rahmi Günay Street. Those staying in the city center can easily reach it on foot. For those coming from outside the city, a short taxi ride from the bus station or train station is sufficient.

The exterior facade and garden of the building are details particularly highlighted by visitors. Even those who only looked from the outside without entering due to travel fatigue were impressed by the architecture. The wooden stairs, historical inscription, and thematic exhibition areas such as the Industrial School Room and the Prison Room offer interesting corners for photography inside.

Since the building is historic and the floor is wooden, sound insulation is poor. There is a distinct creaking sound when walking, going up and down stairs, and pulling chairs. Those who want to study in silence might consider bringing headphones. It is noted that the number of outlets in some rooms is limited, and laptop users should take this into account beforehand. Regarding heating, the back facade and lower floor have been found cold by some visitors, so dressing warmly is beneficial.

The library, being close to the historical center of Sivas, can be added to the end of a day spent visiting the Seljuk madrasahs (Çifte Minareli, Gök Medrese). Visiting in the early afternoon, before getting too tired, allows for a more relaxed tour of the building and its garden. Those who go in the late afternoon might not be able to enter as it gets late.