Barcelona hosts the first library specializing in Palestinian literature and history in Europe

The ancient Gràcia district in the Spanish city of Barcelona witnessed the launch of a pioneering cultural project with the opening of the 'Finistres Palestine' library, which is classified as the first library entirely dedicated to Palestine on the European continent. This initiative, launched by the 'Finistres' foundation, aims to go beyond traditional reading towards building a deep and comprehensive awareness of the Palestinian cause, with a focus on highlighting the rich intellectual and literary heritage produced by Palestinians over decades.

Palestinian writer Mohammed Bittari, one of the supervisors of this cultural edifice, confirmed that the library houses thousands of titles and works translated into several international languages. These collections vary to include novels, poetry, and theater, in addition to history books and fine arts, making it a comprehensive reference for any researcher or person interested in Palestinian cultural identity and its various manifestations.

Regarding the motives that led to the establishment of this project, Bittari revealed that the idea was born out of confronting racism, as Palestinian books in a Spanish library were deliberately vandalized by having coffee spilled on them. This incident prompted the foundation's organizers to make a strategic decision to dedicate an independent and complete space for Palestinian works, in response to attempts to marginalize or abuse the Palestinian national narrative.

The library's organizers believe that Palestinian literature plays a pivotal role not only in preserving memory but also in protecting the cause itself from attempts at obliteration, especially since there is abundant literary production preceding the date of the occupation. Through this platform, the institution seeks to present the Palestinian narrative to the world in the voice of its people, and to integrate the experiences of Palestinians inside and in the diaspora within a comprehensive literary context that reflects their suffering and aspirations.

The opening of the library received wide interaction and great celebration from academics and intellectuals in Spain, as well as remarkable interest from residents of the neighborhood and tourists who visit Barcelona in large numbers. Sources indicated that publishing and distribution houses responded quickly to the initiative, which contributed to enriching the library's content and providing the latest publications related to Palestinian affairs as soon as they were released.

The new headquarters quickly transformed into something akin to a cultural and information center, where visitors of different nationalities seek assistance in understanding the dimensions of the Palestinian cause through literature. The library's team provides explanations and reading suggestions that help visitors form a clear picture based on historical and literary facts, away from the media distortion they may encounter on other platforms.

In conclusion, Bittari stressed that 'Finistres Palestine' will be a vital platform for launching educational and awareness activities and literary events that serve Palestinian creators, writers, and artists. The library is expected to play a fundamental role in strengthening European solidarity with the Palestinian people, by providing a nurturing environment for cultural dialogue based on knowledge and books as tools for peaceful resistance.

The library is not just shelves for books, but a center for providing information, suggestions, and talking with people to learn about Palestine with its cause and ancient literature.