National Afrikaans Literary Museum - Bloemfontein, Free State

The National Afrikaans Literary Museum and Research Centre (NALN), located in Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa, serves as a vital repository for Afrikaans literature and cultural heritage. Founded in 1973, NALN is dedicated to preserving, researching, and promoting the Afrikaans language’s literary heritage and history. The museum showcases the contributions of prominent Afrikaans writers, poets, and playwrights and serves as a significant cultural institution for Afrikaans speakers, researchers, and literature enthusiasts.

The museum’s creation in the 1970s was a response to the growing need to document and conserve the unique evolution of Afrikaans literature and its role within South African society. Initially housed at the University of the Free State, NALN later relocated to its current building, the Old Government Building, a Victorian-style structure dating back to the late 19th century. This architectural gem, which is also a declared heritage site, adds to the museum's charm and historical significance.

NALN houses a rich collection of manuscripts, letters, photographs, first editions, memorabilia, and recordings that reflect the diverse and dynamic history of Afrikaans literature. The museum’s extensive archives include works by notable literary figures such as C.J. Langenhoven, Uys Krige, and N.P. van Wyk Louw, as well as contemporary writers. Visitors can explore exhibits on Afrikaans poetry, prose, drama, and journalism, offering a comprehensive overview of how Afrikaans literary expression has shaped South African culture.

In addition to static displays, NALN also offers research facilities and hosts literary events, readings, workshops, and educational programs aimed at fostering a love for literature among the public and promoting ongoing dialogue about the role of Afrikaans in modern South Africa.

Contact details for the National Afrikaans Literary Museum:
Address: 25 Charles Street, Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa
Phone: +27 (0)51 405 4711

With its mission to preserve and celebrate the Afrikaans language and literary heritage, NALN continues to play a pivotal role in documenting and showcasing the richness of Afrikaans cultural identity.