AGBU Papazian Library Receives Generous Gifts

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YEREVAN, Armenia – The AGBU Papazian Library of the American University of Armenia (AUA) has recently received two notable donations of books, one from Zaven and Sonia Akian and the other from Joseph Oughourlian.

Procuring a collection of 64 prominent publications on world history, civilization, culture, and archaeology was made possible by a generous grant from Zaven and Sonia Akian. The collection includes many foundational books about Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Hittites, Iran and other ancient civilizations, their history, arts, and literatures authored by notable historians, linguists, and archaeologists, as well as a number of landmark works in medieval and modern history and sociology.

“We were thrilled to learn from Professor Gregory Areshian about the funds generously donated by Zaven and Sonia Akian allocated for the purchase of books on world history, civilizations, and archeology,” remarked AUA Library Director Satenik Avakian.

To honor the generous donors the library developed a special bookplate for this collection of books, designed by AUA student Arman Simonyan.

“What a compelling addition to our library. This is a great opportunity to discover and explore different cultures and civilizations of the world through reading,” said Library Director.

Another collection of books on the hidden beauties of Armenia and Artsakh was added to the print reference collection of the AGBU Papazian Library. The books contain captivating high-quality photographs of Armenian monuments, invaluable Armenian manuscripts from the Matenadaran and San Lazzaro degli Armeni taken by contemporary Italian photographer Graziella Vigo.  

Avakian added, “We would like to extend our gratitude to Mr. Joseph Oughourlian, the founder of Amber Capital, who published these books and made them available for our community.”

Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia (AUA) is a private, independent university located in Yerevan, Armenia and affiliated with the University of California. AUA provides a global education in Armenia and the region, offering high-quality, graduate and undergraduate studies, encouraging civic engagement, and promoting public service and democratic values.