Enjoying Egypt 219Young People’s Library and four other specialised libraries;
the Alexandria Conference Center; three museums including
one focusing on science; a planetarium; seven research
centres; a calligraphy institute, and the International School
of Information Studies.
I was fortunate enough to explore the facility shortly
before it officially opened. It is incredible! One thing I find
most amazing are the tables and chairs—all ergonomically
engineered for ease of reading and comfort. However, annual
library cards are relatively expensive unless you plan to utilise
the library frequently.
Public libraries exist throughout Egypt, for example the
new library in the Zamalek neighbourhood of Cairo (the
Greater Cairo Library. 15 Mohamed Mazhar Street. Tel (02)
2736-2278). Many Egyptian libraries are affiliated with
universities, schools or private associations. Even if you are
allowed access, you may not find the variety of materials
you are accustomed to in your home country’s libraries,
especially in the way of fiction. Some universities allow the
general public to use their resources as reference materials,
Viewing the mummy exhibits at the Biblioteca Alexandrina which has,
besides its specialised libraries, three museums, a conference centre, a
planetarium and a host of other tourist attractions.