Dagnija Baltiņa
Gunnar Birkerts (English) or Gunārs Birkerts (Latvian)
1919
The National Library of Latvia (est. in 1919) is one of the fundamental national institutions of Latvia. It is responsible for collecting and preserving all the printed and published materials in Latvia, about Latvia, and by Latvians worldwide.
The library’s organizational structure is based on collections and library services (special collections, bibliographical work, user services). Since 2014 it is located in the new premises – an iconic building – the “Castle of Light” designed by renowned Latvian-American architect Gunnar Birkerts. This has enabled a new chapter for readers, research, outreach (book museum, exhibitions, education programs, etc.), and communication. The mission of the library is to ease and advance learning and growth of everyone in Latvia with a vision that library becomes a habit, foundation and value for all.
2025 will mark the 500 years since the first printed book in Latvian thus becoming the central axis and compass for future developments. Anniversary website: www.gramatai500.lv/en
The National Library of Latvia (NLL) is a state cultural institution – a public academic library, whose main task is to create a collection of national literature and preserve it in perpetuity.
At the same time, the library supports and fosters higher education, research and lifelong learning, as well as reading promotion activities for children.
NLL is home to more than 4 million items of our national heritage – materials about Latvia and Latvians, Latvian and foreign publications, as well as works by Latvian authors.
