Manuscripts Collection
The KFCRIS is known for its extensive collection of manuscripts. The Center preserves around 28,500 titles of original manuscripts, which are occasionally showcased at Al-Faisal Museum's themed exhibitions, such as Masahif Al-Amsar (2017), Wahj: Adornment of the Page (2019-21, now available online), Takwin: Sciences and Innovation (2019-22), and Asfar: Treasures of King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies (2022-present).
Photographed Manuscripts
Moreover, the KFCRIS stores more than 140,000 copies of manuscripts digitally, or in microfilms or microfiches. These include around 15,000 copies of manuscripts which the KFCRIS obtained from British Library in microfiches in 1999, and around 8,000 copies of manuscripts preserved by National Library of France (Bibliothèque national de France) which the Center purchased through the UNESCO in microfilms in 1989.
Manuscript Indexes
The KFCRIS has been working on the indexing of its collection of original manuscripts. It has so far published three indexes through the Al-Faisal Cultural House:
• Tamalt, Ammar, (2023), Fifris al-ḥadīth al-nabawī al-sharīf wa ʿulūmi-hi.
• Tamalt, Ammar, (2023), Fihris al-maṣāḥif al-makhṭūṭa.
• Al-Sarhan, Saud, (2021), Tafsīr al-qurʾān al-karīm wa ʿulūmi-hi.
Restoration
Upon its foundation in 1983, the KFCRIS began its experimental work on manuscript restoration. Under the supervision by a group of experts from the UK, the restoration staff received intensive specialized training courses on various works in the field. Today, the laboratory contains necessary tools and materials for maintaining manuscripts.
Its tasks include:
• Sterilizing manuscripts, documents, books, and periodicals
• Restoring various documents by repairing holes and tears
• Preparing documents for restoration by ensuring the permanently of the ink, removing acidity, rehydrate dry papers, and strengthening weak papers
Moreover, the KFCRIS offers services to external parties, including:
• Organizing training courses for technicians
• Sterilizing and restoring manuscripts and documents
• Providing consultations to various parties
To request these services, fill out the form to contact the Restoration section.
