Liechtensteinische Landesbibliothek: Three in One

The Liechtensteinische Landesbibliothek in Vaduz is the cultural memory of a small country with a rich history. Since its foundation in 1961, it has systematically collected everything published in Liechtenstein, from academic publications and newspapers to literary works by Liechtenstein authors. In doing so, it preserves not only books and documents, but also the identity, history and collective memory of the Principality for future generations.

Today, the Liechtensteinische Landesbibliothek uniquely combines tradition and innovation. Within its facilities, which house historical collections, digital resources and modern workspaces, researchers, students, families with children and international visitors come together. Particularly noteworthy is its multiple function as a national library, academic library and public library, bringing together three roles within a single institution. Registered users can explore Liechtensteinensia, search digital archives, stream films, read, study and work in a quiet and welcoming environment.

Through the “eLiechtensteinensia” platform, the library provides free worldwide access to historical Liechtenstein newspapers, yearbooks and rare publications. At the same time, the Liechtenstein Literary Archive collects and catalogues literary estates and manuscripts, documenting the development of the country’s literature. As a member of international networks such as CENL and IFLA, the Liechtensteinische Landesbibliothek demonstrates how even a small country can preserve its cultural heritage and make it accessible to a broad public.

Another milestone is approaching: in autumn 2029, the Liechtensteinische Landesbibliothek will move into its new building in the center of Vaduz. This modern facility will not only provide more space for collections, events and community activities, but will also create new opportunities for learning, research and cultural exchange. In doing so, the library will further strengthen its role as a vibrant center of knowledge and culture and ensure its readiness for the future.

Facts about the Liechtensteinische Landesbibliothek

• The Liechtensteinische Landesbibliothek serves simultaneously as the national library, public library, and academic library, a combination that is rare in Europe.
• Despite Liechtenstein’s small population of 41’000 inhabitants, approximately 52’000 people visit the Liechtensteinische Landesbibliothek each year and borrow 190’000 items.
• We are probably the only national library whose entrance is located on the second floor of another institution’s building and which has been housed in temporary premises for almost 60 years.
• The Liechtensteinische Landesbibliothek is the only training institution in Liechtenstein for the profession of Information and Documentation Specialist.
• Our Liechtenstein Literary Archive preserves the literary papers and estates of authors. Among its holdings are poems written in the Triesenberg Walser dialect.
• Through the “eLiechtensteinensia” platform, historical Liechtenstein newspapers, books and documents are freely accessible online, including all editions of the daily newspaper Liechtensteiner Volksblatt from 1878 to 2023.
• The cultural property protection repository contains 118’000 publications, an average of 2’878 publications per capita.
• Around three quarters of the collection is stored in closed stacks. More than 5’000 metres of holdings are housed in additional storage facilities in the northern part of the country.
• A particular highlight of our collection is the Liechtenstein License Plate Register as a book. For decades, it recorded the owners of each vehicle registration plate. Today, it serves as a unique source for understanding the social and everyday history of the country. The register achieved sales figures comparable to those of the Bible. The license plate “FL 1” has long been reserved for the Prince of Liechtenstein.
• The Liechtensteinische Landesbibliothek collects all Liechtenstein carnival newspapers. These satirical publications document annual local events, traditions and social issues from a particularly humorous perspective.
• Every staff meeting in der Landesbibliothek ends with a curiosity, a joke or an amusing anecdote from everyday library life.
• With creativity and a good sense of humour, the library publishes an original April Fool’s announcement every year on 1 April, intended to bring a smile to people’s faces.