Martynas Mažvydas National Library of Lithuania, National library in Vilnius, Lithuania.
The Martynas Mažvydas National Library of Lithuania is the largest public library in the country, located in central Vilnius near the parliament building. It houses many reading rooms, research areas, and specialist departments covering a wide range of subjects.
The library was founded in 1919, shortly after Lithuania regained independence and needed a national cultural institution. It received its current name in 1988, as a tribute to the author of the first printed book in the Lithuanian language.
The library is named after Martynas Mažvydas, who wrote the first book ever printed in the Lithuanian language in the 16th century. Visitors moving through the building notice how the collections reflect the long story of Lithuanian written culture.
The building is well signposted and within walking distance of central Vilnius, making it easy to reach on foot or by public transport. Dedicated facilities for visitors with visual impairments are available, and part of the collection can be consulted online through digital catalogues.
The Epaveldas digital collection brings together rare manuscripts, old newspapers, and magazines from Lithuanian archives and museums in one place online. Many of these materials were previously out of reach for most people and can now be browsed freely from anywhere.
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