Metropolitan Ervin Szabó Library — Attraction in Budapest

I was a but afraid of coming here based on the reviews but that being said everything is quite nice here. It’s hard to find the entrance but once you’ve got that cleared it’s quite easy to navigate. The ladies at the front desk are quite monotone. Not specifically rude or nice. The first floor is a very modern and clean looking library as opposed to the other floors which are clearly made more for the tourists. There’s a whole section of books just for helping high-school students get into university which is great considering how pricey those are. Bathrooms are okay but not too clean. All in all for the price of 200 forint this is a great place. There was a very out of control man however and the workers didn’t seem to try to tell him to leave despite there being a lot of security guards. I recommend this place for studying thought because it’s mostly quiet but also not too quiet… just a little nice background noise if you like that for studying. Will be...

A lovely library with a mix of closed and open; contemporary and historical spaces. Choose between intimate nooks surrounded by music books in the latest addition on the 8th floor; grandiose and ornate palace halls; window seating overlooking the courtyard, or in one of the rows of traditional research desks.

Elevators go to all levels or you can use the winding staircase. Just 200ft will get you one years access to work or read (lending options available) and provides free, high speed WiFi access. With helpful and friendly staff on all levels, as well as plenty of electrical outlets and lamps in nearly every room, this library provides all you need for a quiet and productive break from the hustle and bustle outside.

And the coffee shop downstairs will keep you fueled up - what more...

Very beautiful library - so impressive and lovely to see!

From a tourist perspective: I’d recommend seeing this if you’re looking to see a beautiful space and support the library of the city you’re visiting! If you’re looking for a bunch of old books, though, you won’t find it. The historical/palace part tourists can buy a ticket to view are mainly used for locals to work/read/study.

I have mixed feelings about visiting as I definitely liked seeing the ornate rooms and wandering through the reading rooms, and supporting the city’s libraries, but I felt a bit uncomfortable just walking around while people silently worked and I certainly didn’t want to take pictures with them in it (out of respect to their privacy). Just something to keep in mind...