National Islamic Studies Library


Comprehensive Collections

The most comprehensive collection of Islamic books in all genres.

Digital Resources

Extensive e-resources including e-books, academic databases and online journals.

Journals & Periodic

A wide range of Islamic studies journals and periodicals for ongoing academic discourse.

Supportive Staff

Staff trained in SEN who can help guide and support all our patrons’ needs.

Our Islamic Studies Library section is accessible to everyone. This specialised resource section focuses on books, materials, and resources related to Islamic knowledge, culture, history, and practice. 

Our Library aims to have the most comprehensive collection of Islamic books across all genres, with particular focus on tafsir (Qur’anic exegesis), Hadith, jurisprudence, theology, philosophy, history, political movements and thought.

The books will include classical works from the early years of Islamic scholarship, as well as contemporary scholarship on all the subjects mentioned above. Alongside books, the Library will have an extensive e-resources collection.

The books will be mainly in two languages: Arabic and English. Limited books in other languages, such as Bangla, Urdu, and Turkish, will be available. 

Comprehensive Collections


Qur’an and Tafsir (Exegesis):

Collection of Qur’an copies, including translations in various languages, and Tafsir (commentaries) that explain the meanings and contexts of the verses.

Hadith Collections:

Books containing the sayings, actions, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), including well-known compilations such as Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, and more. 

Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence)

Resources on Islamic law, principles, and fiqh  (jurisprudence) from different schools of thought (Hanafi, Shafi‘i, Maliki, Hanbali) covering practical issues related to worship, ethics, transactions, the lawful and unlawful and more.

Islamic Philosophy:

Works on Islamic thought, including classical Islamic philosophy, logic, and the contributions of famous philosophers such as Al-Farabi, Ibn Sina (Avicenna), Al-Ghazali, and Ibn Rushd (Averroes).

Sufism:

Resources on Islamic mysticism, focusing on spiritual practices, poetry, and philosophy of Sufi orders and saints, including works by famous Sufi figures like Rumi, Ibn Arabi, and Al-Ghazali.

Comparative Religion:

Books that compare Islamic beliefs and practices with other world religions, such as Christianity, Judaism, and Hinduism, examining points of convergence and divergence.

Our library will have a large collection of physical books, ranging from foundational texts and scholarly articles to contemporary writings on Islam in fields such as theology, law, politics, and the social sciences. We will also offer a wide range of digital resources, including e-books, digital journals, and access to online databases containing academic papers, lectures, and Islamic educational resources. Let’s not forget our Journals and Periodicals, which focus on Islamic studies, theology, law, and history and provide ongoing academic discourse in the field.

‘Aqidah (Islamic Creed)

Works on Islamic theology that explore the fundamental beliefs of Islam and other core concepts.

History of Islam

A broad collection of books covering the history of Islam, from its beginnings in the 7th century to its spread across the world.

Islamic Art and Architecture

Books, guides, and materials on the history and significance of Islamic art, calligraphy, and architectural traditions.

Islamic Education

Books on the philosophy and methodologies of Islamic education, from madrasahs to contemporary Islamic schools.

Islamic Economics and Finance

Resources on Islamic banking, finance, and economic principles, including discussions on the prohibition of riba (usury), zakat (charity), and Islamic ethical investing.

Islamic Counselling

Some libraries may offer resources or programs related to Islamic counselling, mental health, and personal development from an Islamic perspective.

Facilities


Studying Areas

We provide designated study areas equipped with comfortable seating and quiet zones for individual study, research, group work, and collaborative projects. 

Computer Access & Wi-Fi

Free computer access and Wi-Fi throughout the library for research and general use. The computer corner is for educational purposes only. Membership is required

Reading Space

Quiet reading spaces to immerse yourself in a book or work on assignments without distractions. With ample lighting and a serene atmosphere, these spaces enhance your reading experience.

Meeting Space

Whether you have a business meeting or a meeting with friends, we have space to accommodate you in our open-plan library. It’s the ideal place to enjoy coffee, discuss issues, and catch up.  

Event and Program Space

Educational seminars, author talks, workshops, book clubs, and more. Fostering community and offering learning opportunities beyond traditional reading.


Copyright Guidance

There are limits on how much you can print, photocopy or scan from any copyrighted resource.

Generally, the following limits are considered ‘fair dealing’ when copying for non-commercial research or non-commercial private study:

  • Up to one complete chapter of a book​
  • Up to one whole article from a single issue of a serial publication or in a set of conference proceedings​
  • The entire report of a single case of judicial proceedings
  • In the case of an anthology of short stories or poems, one short story or poem not exceeding 10 pages in length
  • OR, no more than 5% is printed or scanned​ in total from any one volume

Wi-Fi

Wireless internet access is available throughout the library for staff, students and visitors.
In keeping with the Data Protection Act, we advise all users not to save any work, personal information, or files onto Library computers, as they are used by many people. Please note that during busy periods, we may have to restrict PC usage time.

Supportive Staff & Guidance

Staff will always be on hand, ready to assist you wherever they can. This includes when logging in for the first time and when you utilise one of our computers

  • Librarians Trained in SEN: Staff with expertise in special educational needs who can help guide patrons to the appropriate resources, whether for learning or leisure reading.
  • Workshops and Sessions: Some SEN libraries offer educational programs, reading groups, or sensory experiences to help children and adults with special needs engage with books and learning in a more interactive way.