Austrian National Library — Attraction in Vienna

Welcome to the Austrian National Library – the country’s largest library and central memory institution.

Use of library Closing time from July 25 until August 5, 2023

Due to revision works the facilities of the readings rooms at Heldenplatz and all departments are closed from Tuesday, July 25 until Saturday, August 5 2023.

Due to shutdown of the ordering system no orders of media can be accepted from Monday, July 24 4 p.m. until Friday, August 4 2023, 8 a.m. The first processing of books takes place on Friday, August 4 2023.

Restauration works in the State Hall The occasional restoration work is still being carried out in the State Hall. This may lead to sporadic minor disturbances, above all of an acoustic nature. We apologise for any inconvenience.

Discover the Austrian National Library: a modern, service-oriented centre of expertise and a popular meeting place for researchers and students.

With over 10.9 million books and artefacts, the Austrian National Library is the largest library in Austria. Our international reputation rests not only on our over 3.9 million books, but, especially, on the » eight collections of unique artefacts – manuscripts, incunabula, music manuscripts, photographs, maps, globes and much more.

In terms of the focus of its collections, until 1920 the library was a universal library (and this still applies to Austrian writing). Because of the » legal deposit requirement for all Austrian publications – the legal obligation to deposit copies applied to most of the empire until 1918 – we hold all Austrian writings originating from within the political borders of the time. When it comes to acquiring foreign literature, our focus today is mainly on the humanities.

In addition to the extensive physical facilities at the library itself, our Digital Library offers you numerous opportunities for viewing our digital collections.

Look for literature and specialist technical information in various databases. Use a range of online portals to research detailed material from our digitisation projects. In addition to the digitised material, you will also find lots of born-digital media.

We want to make your visit to the Austrian National Library and its museums as enjoyable as possible. To enable you to plan successfully in advance, you can find everything you need to know very conveniently on these pages.

Tip: Save time by buying your entrance tickets in advance from our » ticket shop or booking your » guided tour online.

The Austrian National Library is not only the largest library in the country, but also offers you permanent presentations and diverse special exhibitions in the State Hall and the museums – the Literature, Papyrus, Globe and Esperanto Museum and the House of Austrian History.

» State Hall

» Literature Museum

» Globe Museum

» Papyrus Museum

»...

Title: Impeccable Cultural Gem in Vienna Review: I recently had the privilege of visiting the Austrian National Library in Vienna, and I must say that it exceeded all my expectations. Nestled in the heart of Vienna, this library is an absolute treasure trove of knowledge, history, and art.

First and foremost, the architecture of the library is breathtaking. From the moment you step into the grand entrance hall, you are transported into a world of elegance and sophistication. The magnificent Baroque interiors, adorned with beautifully painted ceilings, ornate sculptures, and intricate detailing, make it a true architectural masterpiece.

The library's collection is equally impressive. With over 12 million items, including books, manuscripts, maps, and prints, it is a haven for any bibliophile or history enthusiast. The extensive range of resources covering various topics across different languages is truly awe-inspiring.

The staff at the Austrian National Library deserves special recognition. They are incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about their work. Their willingness to assist visitors with any inquiries or research needs is commendable. They genuinely make you feel welcome and ensure that your visit is unforgettable.

One of the highlights of my visit was the Prunksaal, the famous State Hall of the library. The sight of row upon row of ancient books, meticulously preserved and beautifully showcased, is an experience in itself. The ambiance created by the warm lighting and hushed whispers adds a sense of reverence and awe to the space.

Furthermore, the library's dedication to promoting culture and education through numerous exhibitions, lectures, and events is truly praiseworthy. It offers a wonderful opportunity to delve deeper into different areas of academic interest and engage with experts in various fields.

In summary, the Austrian National Library is an absolute gem that should not be missed when visiting Vienna. The combination of its stunning architecture, vast collection, and knowledgeable staff create an unparalleled cultural experience. I wholeheartedly recommend this library to anyone seeking a profound journey into the world of literature, history, and art.

Visiting this majestic library left me with a deep appreciation for the preservation and promotion of our collective cultural heritage. It truly embodies the spirit of intellectual curiosity and...

The Austrian National Library is an absolute gem, both for those with a deep interest in history and literature, and for casual visitors alike. Located in the heart of Vienna, the library’s Baroque architecture and magnificent interiors, particularly the Prunksaal (State Hall), are breathtaking. Stepping into the State Hall feels like entering a palace of knowledge, where beautifully adorned ceilings, ancient manuscripts, and a vast collection of books surround you.

The exhibits are well-curated and provide insights into Austria’s rich cultural history. The library also offers numerous special collections, including rare manuscripts and historical maps, making it a valuable resource for scholars and researchers. The overall atmosphere is peaceful and inspiring—a perfect place to dive into Austria’s intellectual heritage.

The staff is helpful, and the audio guides are informative, offering a deeper understanding of the exhibits. I highly recommend a visit to anyone in Vienna, whether you’re a history enthusiast, a bibliophile, or simply someone who appreciates grand,...