National and University Library in Zagreb

In the heart of Croatia's capital city, Zagreb, lies a beacon of knowledge and culture: the National and University Library in Zagreb, known locally as Nacionalna i sveučilišna knjižnica u Zagrebu. This modern architectural marvel, with its sleek lines and expansive glass facades, stands as a testament to the nation's commitment to preserving its rich literary heritage while embracing the future.

A Storied Past

The origins of the National and University Library in Zagreb trace back to 1607 when the Jesuit order established a library alongside their grammar school and college in Zagreb. By 1645, the library had its own dedicated space, complete with a librarian and established rules for book preservation and lending. The library's significance grew over the centuries, particularly after the Jesuit order was disbanded in 1773, and the library became part of the Royal Zagreb Academy of Sciences.

Throughout its history, the library has undergone numerous transformations and relocations. It became the central library of the University of Zagreb in 1874 and moved to its first purpose-built home in 1913, an Art Nouveau masterpiece designed to house 500,000 volumes. However, by the late 20th century, the library's collection had far outgrown this space, leading to the construction of the current building, which opened its doors in 1995.

An Architectural Gem

Designed by Croatian architects Velimir Neidhardt, Marijan Hržić, Zvonimir Krznarić, and Davor Mance, the current building of the National and University Library in Zagreb is a striking example of modern architecture. The cubical structure, with its clean lines and extensive use of glass, allows natural light to flood the interior, creating a welcoming and inspiring atmosphere for visitors and researchers alike.

The library's vast interior space covers a net floor area of 36,478 square meters and a gross floor area of 44,432 square meters. It features 110,000 meters of mobile shelving in closed stacks and 12,900 meters of shelving in open access reading rooms. The design not only accommodates the library's extensive collection but also provides ample space for study, research, and cultural events.

A Treasure Trove of Knowledge

The National and University Library in Zagreb boasts an impressive collection of approximately 3.5 million items, making it one of the most significant repositories of knowledge in Croatia. Its holdings include Croatian monographs, serial publications, special book materials, non-book materials, music, and electronic resources. The library's collections are continually expanding, with thousands of new items acquired each year through regular acquisition and legal deposit procedures.

Among its most prized possessions are the special collections, which include the Manuscripts and Old Books Collection, the Print Collection, the Map Collection, and the Music Collection. These collections house rare and valuable items, such as historical manuscripts, prints by renowned Croatian and international artists, ancient maps, and a rich legacy of Croatian sheet music and sound recordings.

Services and Facilities

The National and University Library in Zagreb offers a wide range of services to its users, including lending and reference services, interlibrary loans, IT services, and learning programs. The library also hosts exhibitions and events, showcasing its collections and promoting Croatian cultural heritage.

For those seeking a quiet place to study or conduct research, the library provides 1,100 seats in its reading rooms, including special collections reading rooms, audio booths, individual and group study rooms, and study cubicles. A 100-seat conference room and a 150-seat late hours reading room are also available for users who need a space for meetings or extended study sessions.

A Hub of Cultural and Scientific Activity

Beyond its role as a repository of knowledge, the National and University Library in Zagreb is a vibrant hub of cultural and scientific activity. It plays a crucial role in the preservation and promotion of Croatian printed and electronic publications, and its bibliographic activities and information services are integrated into international programs.

The library is also a center for scientific research in the field of library and information sciences, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and the development of new technologies and methodologies in the field. Its publishing and promotional activities, along with its organization of exhibitions, further enhance its role as a cultural and educational institution.

Visiting the Library

A visit to the National and University Library in Zagreb is a journey through Croatia's literary and cultural heritage. Whether you're a scholar, a student, or simply a lover of books and history, the library offers a wealth of resources and a serene environment for exploration and discovery. From its vast collections to its state-of-the-art facilities, the library stands as a beacon of knowledge and a testament to the enduring power of the written word.

In conclusion, the National and University Library in Zagreb is not just a building filled with books; it is a living institution that embodies the spirit of Croatian culture and scholarship. Its walls hold the stories of the nation's past and the promise of its future, making it an essential destination for anyone visiting Zagreb.