The Siem Reap Library of the Ecole française d’Extrême-Orient (EFEO)
Siem Reap Library: A Hidden Treasure for Khmer Empire Enthusiasts
Siem Reap is known for the stunning temples of Angkor. Yet, the city also has hidden gems for history enthusiasts. One such gem is the Siem Reap Library of the Ecole française d’Extrême-Orient (EFEO). This library is a hub for discovering Cambodia’s rich history and the Khmer Empire’s cultural heritage (PSL Explore).
Diverse Collections
The Siem Reap Library holds over 3,000 volumes in French, Khmer, and English, catering to researchers worldwide. It also has a comprehensive collection of maps, allowing visitors to explore Cambodia’s geographical evolution. Another unique feature is the Angkor and Angkor Conservation Office archives. These materials date from 1908 to 1975 and are available on microfiche or CD-ROM (PSL Explore).
Accessibility and Services
Visitors can access the library from Monday to Friday, 8 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 5:30 pm. Although borrowing is restricted to the Centre’s research staff, visitors can use a photocopy service for a nominal fee. This service allows them to take home copies of materials they find useful (EFEO).
Outreach Activities
The Siem Reap Library engages with the community through various outreach activities. The Siem Reap Lectures invite scholars to share their research on topics like ancient Cambodian gold mining and Angkor’s history. These events are open to the public and create a platform for learning and discussion (EFEO).
In addition to lectures, the library offers training cycles focused on the archives of the Angkor Conservation. These training sessions help participants understand the history, uses, and heritage issues surrounding these archives (EFEO).
Research Collaborations
The EFEO’s Siem Reap Center collaborates with various organizations to conduct research and restoration projects. These collaborations emphasize the library’s role in supporting these efforts. The center also hosts Cambodian and European interns, as well as EFEO doctoral candidates and fellowship holders (EFEO).
Discovering Siem Reap’s History
The Siem Reap Library is a great place to explore if you want to discover obscure information about the Khmer Empire. With its diverse collections, outreach activities, and research collaborations, it offers a unique experience for those interested in Cambodia’s history and culture.
If you’d like to learn more about the Siem Reap Library of the EFEO, you can visit their official website (EFEO). It contains additional information on their collections and outreach activities.