A British Librarian’s Love Affair with Kurdistan: Lesley Gaj’s 17-Year Journey in Erbil
From a modest library to a leading knowledge hub, Lesley Gaj reflects on her life, work, and the deep bond she has formed with Kurdistan.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In 2007, British citizen Lesley Gaj arrived in Erbil, Kurdistan Region of Iraq, expecting a temporary stay. Seventeen years later, she calls it home. While she has made short visits to the United Kingdom to see family and friends, Kurdistan has become her permanent residence, a place she holds dear for its warmth, hospitality, and deep-rooted sense of community.
“I love Erbil. I consider it to be my home now; even when I travel out of the country, I always look forward to coming back,” Gaj told Kurdistan24 English. “This is a beautiful country with lovely people—welcoming and hospitable. The work-life balance here is much better; it’s not a hectic ‘rat race.’ And I have a ‘wow’ moment every day!”
A Home Away from Home
Unlike many expatriates who struggle to integrate, Gaj has embraced Kurdistan wholeheartedly. Although she modestly admits that her Kurdish language skills remain basic—enough to navigate daily interactions—she has developed deep personal and professional relationships with locals.
“Over 17 years, I have met a lot of people, many of whom are still my friends. Some were my students who have long graduated but have remained part of my life,” she said. “I rarely go anywhere without recognizing or speaking to someone I know. My friends are many, close and not so close, but always interesting and agreeable people.”
Her affection for Kurdistan extends beyond friendships. She describes it as safer in many ways than most Western countries, despite external misconceptions. “The weather is better, the work-life balance is better, and the people here are honest. Bureaucracy exists, but it’s just different. The only downside? Kurds are crazy drivers!” she added with a smile.
Transforming the UKH Library
Since her arrival, Gaj has dedicated her career to education, working at the University of Kurdistan Hewlêr (UKH). She started as a librarian in 2007 and, by 2013, became the Director of the Library. In 2017, she took on an additional role as Director of the American Corner in Erbil, and in 2019, she was appointed University Ombudsman.
“When I first arrived, the library was in dire need of renovation. We operated out of a back office, with about 600 volumes,” Gaj recalled.
The transformation began in 2008 with essential structural improvements, including new windows, doors, and enclosed study spaces. Over the years, as student numbers increased and courses expanded, so did the library’s collection and services. By 2022, the library underwent a major renovation, enhancing study areas, maximizing natural light, and increasing digital resources. Today, it serves as a knowledge hub, providing worldwide access to academic materials and aligning its services with the needs of a modern university.
A Future Rooted in Kurdistan
Despite the challenges, Gaj remains deeply committed to her life in Kurdistan. “There are ups and downs, but overall, it’s a wonderful place to be. I could, and do, find faults, but that happens anywhere. The good far outweighs the bad for me,” she said.
With no plans to leave, she continues to invest in the country’s education sector, nurturing a space for learning and intellectual growth. “I’m not planning any moves anywhere at all—except for my holidays,” she affirmed.
Lesley Gaj’s journey in Kurdistan is not just about professional accomplishments but about the enduring personal bond she has formed with the people and the land. From building a world-class library to fostering cross-cultural connections, she stands as a testament to how a place can become home—not by birth, but by heart.
