Historic US-built Girls’ School in Türkiye transformed into library

A historic girls’ school in Merzifon, Amasya, is undergoing a dramatic transformation. Built by American missionaries over a century and a half ago, the building is being restored and repurposed as a library with funding from the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

The restoration, which began with a meticulous review of the building’s historical photographs, is nearing completion.

Originally part of the American College campus during the Ottoman Empire, the building fell into disrepair over the years.

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism took the initiative to restore the building, designating it for the General Directorate of Libraries and Publications. Upon completion, the building will serve as the Merzifon District Public Library.

The four-story historical structure, which includes a clock tower and approximately 3,000 square meters of enclosed space, is set to be completed later this year.

Amasya Governor Yilmaz Doruk, AK Party Amasya deputies Haluk Ipek and Hasan Cilez, and the Provincial Director of Culture and Tourism Bilal Eken visited the site to review the progress of the restoration and received updates from officials of the Samsun Culture and Tourism Directorate.

Deputy Hasan Cilez remarked, “The Girls’ School was in a state of severe disrepair. We conducted a detailed examination of historical photos and carried out an extraordinary restoration.”

Deputy Ipek added, “This is an incredibly special building. Once restored, it will be passed on to future generations as a library.”

The transformation of the Girls’ School promises to not only preserve a piece of history but also provide the community with a valuable cultural and educational resource.

The library will soon stand as a testament to both historical preservation and the continued investment in the community’s future.