The National Library of Türkiye is hosting a special exhibition entitled “Treasures of the National Library: Ziya Gökalp” at its exhibition hall in Ankara from 20 October to 22 November 2026. Organised to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the birth of Ziya Gökalp, one of the most influential figures in Turkish intellectual, literary and cultural history, the exhibition forms part of the “Treasures of the National Library” series marking the Library’s 80th anniversary.

The exhibition officially opened on 20 October 2026, with the participation of Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, Minister of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye. An accompanying panel was also held on the same day, focusing on Gökalp’s intellectual legacy and his contributions to Turkish cultural and political thought.

Ziya Gökalp played a significant role in shaping Turkish intellectual life during the transition from the late Ottoman period to the early years of the Republic of Türkiye. His writings and ideas left a lasting impact on Turkish literature, sociology, cultural identity and political thought.

Drawing on the rich collections of the National Library of Türkiye, the exhibition brings together a wide range of original materials, including books, periodicals, photographs, first editions, postage stamps, first-day covers, posters, postcards and archival documents. These items offer visitors an opportunity to explore Gökalp’s multifaceted intellectual legacy and the historical context in which he lived and worked.

The exhibition is organised into five thematic sections: “The Life of Ziya Gökalp”, “His Works and Intellectual World”, “His Influence on Turkish Political Life and Administrative Roles”, “Reflections of His Ideas and Publications About Him”, and “Ziya Gökalp in the News”.

Through these sections, visitors can discover his poetry, essays, literary works and contributions to children’s literature, as well as his influence on the intellectual development of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. The exhibition also highlights how Gökalp and his ideas were represented in the press of his time and discussed by later generations.

Beyond presenting the life and works of an influential thinker, the exhibition reflects the National Library of Türkiye’s commitment to preserving and promoting the country’s documentary and intellectual heritage. By bringing together rare and historically significant materials from its collections, the Library offers visitors an opportunity to explore an important period in Türkiye’s cultural and literary history.

The exhibition is open to visitors at the National Library of Türkiye in Ankara until 22 November 2026.