Cultural Partners / Österreichische Nationalbibliothek
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Cover photo:© Österreichische Nationalbibliothek | Pichler
About the Austrian National Library
The Austrian National Library is the central scientific library of the Republic of Austria. Its tradition-rich history dates back to the 14th century. At its foundation is a founding codex from 1368.
Since then, the house has understood itself as a living bridge. For it connects the rich heritage of the past with the demands of the modern information society.
Over the centuries, the library grew with the expansion of the imperial court. From 1806 onwards, it was known as the National Library of the Austrian Empire. In 1920, the National Library finally replaced the Hofbibliothek. It has carried its current name since its reestablishment in 1945.
Photo: © Österreichische Nationalbibliothek | Pichler
Today, the library is also a service-oriented information and research center. Furthermore, it is considered the state’s outstanding memory institution. It is also a diverse educational and cultural center.
Photo: © Österreichische Nationalbibliothek | Pichler
Collections and reading rooms
In 19 reading rooms and through digital portals, the library opens up its own collections. These include just under 12 million items. In addition, it provides access to international data pools.
As the heir to the Habsburg Hofbibliothek, it preserves a significant portion of the written world cultural heritage in eight collections. In addition, it continuously expands this collection through acquisitions.
The Grand Hall and the museums
Your heart is in the Austrian National Library in the Prunksaal. It was built in the 18th century as part of the former court library. With its length of almost 80 meters and height of 20 meters, it surprises every visitor. An elaborately decorated dome and numerous frescoes create an imperial atmosphere. Four Venetian splendor globes with a diameter of over one meter complete the room.
Around 200,000 historical books are housed in this hall. Therefore, it ranks among the most beautiful library halls in the world. From July to December 2022, the 300-year-old Baroque splendor was given new luster.
In the Grand Hall and in five museums, the Austrian National Library also displays unique art treasures from its collections. These include the Literature Museum, the Papyrus Museum, the Globe and Esperanto Museum, and the House of Austrian History.