The Signed Manuscripts Conference, 26-28 April 2005, sought to showcase the vast array of rare Arabic manuscripts which bear autographs of eminent figures of Arabic-Islamic heritage. The topical coverage included autographed manuscripts, marginalia, commentaries, ex-libris inscriptions, collation references, or ijazas written in the handwriting of leading Arab scholars. The term Signed Manuscripts also covers autographed Ma’ājim al-Shuyukh, original scientific treatises, etc.
The main aim of the Calligraphy, Writing and Inscriptions Forum was to gather the specialists in all fields of calligraphy studies from around the world to help create specialized dialogues amongst them and to present the new discoveries and research in calligraphy. This Forum will be held every two years. It was held for the first time from 24-26 April 2003 and the second Forum from 24-26 April 2005.
The Manuscripts Center hosted its first annual conference with the theme of Millenary Manuscripts, on 26-28 September 2004. Distinguished manuscript specialists from all over the globe met and reviewed the treasures of heritage lying in the vast array of Arabic millenary manuscripts (i.e. dating back to 450 AH or before) scattered all across world libraries.
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina organized an international seminar on the Fate of the Ancient Library of Alexandria entitled What Happened to the Ancient Library of Alexandria on 26-28 September 2004.
This year's Beacon for Freedom of Expression Conference, 18-20 September 2004, raised awareness about issues and challenges surrounding freedom of expression.