Ziya Bey Manuscript Library is an archive and library in Sivas city center, built in 1908 by Yusuf Ziya Başara, housing 1616 manuscripts and over 15,000 printed books in a cut-stone building.
Ziya Bey Manuscript Library is named after Yusuf Ziya Başara from Sivas. Başara built this building with his own means in 1908 and filled it with books. He was 38 at the time and later served as a member of parliament. The building was constructed with cut stones resistant to cold and heat, in the late Ottoman architectural style. It remained private property until 1978, then was nationalized by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
Today, 1616 manuscripts and 15,361 printed books are preserved here. It is actually a small space consisting of a single room. For someone without an interest in art history or history, it might seem like an ordinary library. But once you step inside and see Charles Texier's original period editions and rare facsimile works, the matter changes. Visitor comments frequently mention that the explanations of the library staff, especially Ms. Ayşe, greatly enhance the experience. Those visiting in groups recommend giving prior notice.
The library is located in Sivas's Çarşıbaşı Neighborhood, close to the city square. It can be considered part of a walking route; it's small enough to be seen during a short break along with other historical structures in Sivas.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Sivas historical places, Hafik Lake.
Guide's Note
The Story of the Library
Yusuf Ziya Başara, born in Sivas in 1869, had a career in civil service starting in the Mektubi Kalemi and extending to acting district governor. In 1908, at the age of 38, he built this library with his own money; his aim was his belief that the nation would prosper through knowledge. In the early years of the Republic, the building was known as "Ziya Bitik Evi" (Ziya's Book House). He passed away in 1943, but his name still lives on with this library today.
When to Visit
Since it's a small place, there's no need to go during crowded hours; it doesn't get very crowded anyway. As it's closed on Sundays and Mondays, plan for a weekday. If you're visiting in a group, especially with an academic interest, calling ahead ensures that the staff can dedicate time to you and explain each work individually. This point is frequently emphasized in visitor reviews.
How to Get There
The library is located in Çarşıbaşı Neighborhood, about a 10-minute walk from Sivas city square. If you're staying in the city center, you can easily reach it on foot. For those driving, there is street parking nearby, but vehicle traffic is limited in the narrow streets where the historical fabric is preserved.
Must-Sees
The exterior of the building showcases 19th-century Ottoman stonework; the cut-stone facade makes for a good photograph. Inside, the real value lies in the collection: among 1616 manuscripts and over 15,000 printed books, Charles Texier's original period editions stand out. Visitors note that the opportunity to examine these editions up close is rare. The single-room interior is simple, but the density of works on the shelves is striking.
Other Stops Nearby
Since the library is close to the historical center of Sivas, it can be included in the same walking route as other historical structures like Çifte Minareli Medrese, Gök Medrese, and Ulu Cami. It can be considered a short stop during a half-day Sivas city center tour.
Things to Note
The venue is a small structure consisting of a single room; do not go with the expectation of a large museum. For visitors without an interest in history, art history, or archaeology, the content might be limited. However, if you are interested, the staff's narration completely changes the experience. Therefore, if possible, plan your visit by giving prior notice.
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