Biblioteca Nacional de Guinea Ecuatorial National Library of Equatorial Guinea

Overview

The Biblioteca Nacional de Guinea Ecuatorial (BnGE) is the national library of Equatorial Guinea and the leading institution of the national library system. It is located in the center of Malabo, the capital city, in the historic building of the sculptor Leandro Mbomio Nsue on Calle Mongomo de Guadalupe. As the apex institution of Guinea Ecuatorial's library network, it is responsible for collecting, cataloguing, and conserving the nation's bibliographic heritage.

History and Founding

The Biblioteca Nacional de Guinea Ecuatorial was founded on June 4, 2009, as an agency within the national Ministry of Culture. The building, the former studio of celebrated Equatoguinean sculptor Leandro Mbomio Nsue, was renovated between 2007 and 2008 in preparation for its inauguration as the National Library. The institution's first director was Guillermina Mekuy, a prominent young Equatoguinean writer and lawyer. The library was inaugurated in the presence of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo and received initial donations of facsimiles and collections from several Spanish institutions, including the Ministries of Culture and Foreign Affairs.

Collections and Holdings

The library holds a bibliographic fund of approximately 60,000 items. Its collection policy prioritizes works by native Equatoguinean authors and internationally recognized works referencing Equatorial Guinea, as well as manuscript and printed works by Guinean authors across historical periods. The building also houses a collection of artworks, including paintings by artist Ghutty Mamae and sculptures by Leandro Mbomio Nsue.

Access

The library is open to the public and is located in central Malabo. It provides reading areas and participates in cultural programs and events highlighting local authors and artists.