In a notable development, the Flemish government has officially designated the Bruges public library as a national cultural heritage organization. This prestigious recognition carries with it
a substantial boost in funding, with the library set to receive an additional annual subsidy of 250,000 euros.
Beyond its primary role as a public library, the Bruges institution also serves as the steward of an exceptional heritage collection. This collection encompasses a wealth of historical treasures, including medieval manuscripts, rare printed books, the esteemed archives of poet Guido Gezelle, and a remarkable historical newspaper archive. Notably, a portion of this collection has been deemed of such exceptional cultural significance that it has earned a place on the esteemed Flemish Topstukken list.
Following a favorable evaluation by the expert committee, Culture Minister Jan Jambon (N-VA) made the decision to confer national cultural heritage status upon the library.
Bruges councillor Nico Blontrock expressed his delight, stating, "The expert committee of the Flemish government has appraised the library's operations exceedingly positively. We have earned particularly high marks in areas such as collection curation, preservation and management, scholarly research, and public engagement. This recognition stands as a testament to the dedication of our scholarly staff at the Bruges Heritage Library, as well as the tireless efforts of those involved in public outreach, education, and all members of the Bruges library team."
With this newfound recognition, the library plans to embark on a project that will highlight its rich history, diverse collections, and societal relevance. This creative endeavor will involve collaboration with the talented illustrator Peter Goes, as well as partnerships with other stakeholders and the engagement of the public. The fruits of this labor will be unveiled on Heritage Day in 2024, offering the community an opportunity to celebrate their cultural heritage in a unique and engaging manner. Photo by Bruges Public Library, Wikimedia commons.