Books and libraries in classical Turkish literature

Books are instrumental in the personal development in terms of knowledge and wisdom; they are in a position to ensure the progress, development and growth of the society in many aspects such as political, social and cultural. Because of this position, books find meaning and importance among the Ottoman rulers, viziers, sheikh-ul-islams, court officials and the people. It is an undeniable fact that this meaning and importance is also valid for the poets of classical Turkish literature. So, what were the functions of books for the poets of classical Turkish litera-ture? Did the poets of this literature read books? Did poets make use of source books in the production of their works? Did they recommend and request books? Within the framework of various contents such as thanks, complaints, wills, advice, prayers and curses, which aspects of books were included in the poems? What kind of adjectives were used for books? How were books reflected in the poems of poets who were inspired by the spiritual values and material elements carried by books, the arts that developed around them, and the customs, traditions and beliefs they gained in society? Which concepts did the poets associate with books, including the likeness and the likened? Which characteristic features were attributed to the book? How did the poets view libraries? Did they have personal libraries? In order to find answers to such ques-tions, a study on "Books and Libraries in Classical Turkish Literature" will be conducted. Although studies on books and libraries have increased recently, there is no individual academic study that shows the meaning, importance, place, function and use of the book for the poets of classical Turkish literature. For this reason, it is hoped that this study will fill the gap in the literature. Keywords: Classical Turkish Literature, Classical Turkish Poetry, Poet, Book, Library.