The “Thimi Mitko” Library in Korça began in July 1921. The library was founded by the “Vatra” federation, a prominent Albanian-American organization that supported Albanian national causes. It was called the “People’s Library,” the first of its kind in Albania.

Alda Bardhyli, director of the National Center for Books and Reading, visited the modern library with Jorida Dhëmbi, director of “Thimi Mitko”.

The library was restored on its 100th anniversary, becoming Albania’s first modern library. It adapts to technological changes and serves as a space for creative and transformative activities beyond books. Thanks to Korça Municipality’s initiative and support, the entire book collection has been digitized.

In the early years, many patriots from Korça, both local and abroad, enriched the collection. Nikolla Lako, the first director, carefully preserved Alandro Kastrioti’s books and his own publications. Patriot Spiro Dine donated the original edition of Thimi Mitko’s “Mbleta Shqyptare” and Naum Veqilharxhi’s “Abetare.” Among the Diaspora’s gifts is the 1602 edition of “The History of Skanderbeg.”

The oldest book dates back to 1541, a manuscript titled, ‘Commentario delle cose dei Turchi, et del s. Georgio Scanderbeg, principe di Epiro, con la sua vita’, by Paulo Giovio and Andrea Ganbini, published in Venice.

On November 28, 1930, philanthropist Thoma Turtulli donated a neoclassical building to the city to house the library as a temple of knowledge. At the opening, Turtulli said: “Let the youth of Korça leave the cafes and turn to books.”

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