We are delighted to announce the successful completion of CBRL’s first significant project within the Archive and Library.

With funding from the British Library’s Endangered Archives Programme, we have successfully digitised an outstanding 32,000 pages of rare books and archival materials from the British School of Archaeology in Jerusalem and Amman. This collection spans materials from the 16th century to 1950, offering invaluable insights into the pre-modern nation-state era, including significant records from Mandatory Palestine that highlight Britain’s role in archaeology during that time. 

Our digitised collections in Jerusalem and Amman feature 99 rare and early printed books focused on archaeology, dating from the 17th century to the mid-19th century. Additionally, we have digitised approximately 4,000 items, including administrative documents, photographs, drawings, and maps housed at the Kenyon Institute in Jerusalem and the Amman Institute.

The collections also include significant archival materials from J.W. Crowfoot’s excavations in Jordan during the 1920s, along with documents from Harris Dunscombe Colt’s Archaeological Expedition of the 1930s. These resources provide detailed information about excavations in southern Palestine, delivering crucial historical insights into local communities and their interactions with archaeological sites while emphasising Britain’s important contributions to the field. 

“This project marks a significant advancement in our efforts to preserve and provide access to our rich archival heritage located in conflict zones. We hope these resources foster greater understanding of the peoples and cultures of the Levant.” 

Qasem Abu Harb, Project Leader.

Explore the collections on the British Library website by searching for “Understanding Mandate Palestine through the publications and archive of the British School of Archaeology in Jerusalem (EAP1544)” or following this link. Soon, some of these items in be in our digital repository. 

We’ll be promoting our findings at upcoming international and local conferences. Sign up to our newsletter or check our events to join us for workshops and discussions. Your participation will help highlight the rich history of the Levant and the importance of preserving its cultural heritage.

We are also currently developing our CBRL Digital Repository, designed to provide access to archives located at three sites: the Kenyon Institute (KI) in East Jerusalem, the Amman Institute in Jordan, and our UK archives. Our repository aims to enable researchers, academics, and the public to access these collections in one centralised location, regardless of their background or location. Our goal is to foster knowledge and understanding of the peoples and cultures of the Levant by offering digital access to these valuable resources. 

In Autumn 2022, under CBRL’s archival programme, comprehensive policies were established for archives and library collections, emphasizing access and preservation. These policies facilitate access to researchers and other interested individuals. 

Thanks to everyone involved for making this possible! We would like to recognize the dedicated team members who contributed to this project: Qasem Abu Harb, Eman Shahin, Rudaina Almomani, and Kamel Alkaloti. Their hard work and expertise were instrumental in the successful digitisation and preservation of these valuable archives, exemplifying our commitment to fostering knowledge and understanding of the Levant’s rich history.