The Marta Library and Adigrat Public Library, located in Adigrat town in Eastern Tigray, were among the region’s most significant public knowledge centers. Together, they housed over 100,000 books, including historical archives and educational materials serving students and the wider community.
During the War on Tigray, both libraries were deliberately destroyed. Available evidence indicates extensive burning, damage, and looting of books and archival materials, leaving the facilities almost completely emptied. The destruction affected more than 90% of the collections, while the remaining materials were reportedly taken.
Respondents and local accounts describe the damage as intentional, targeting institutions of learning and knowledge. The libraries were rendered non-functional, with their educational and cultural roles completely eliminated.
The loss represents a significant blow to educational access, cultural preservation, and community knowledge systems in Adigrat.
For the details, see the full report, from Page 218 https://citghub.org/the-systematic-undoing-of-society-war-damage-and-loss-in-the-social-sector-of-tigray/