National Library of Mauritania

The National Library of Mauritania is a national library in Nouakchott housed within the National Museum complex. The institution holds a collection of around 10,000 volumes spanning multiple subject areas.

The institution was founded in 1965 and developed into a central archive for national publications after independence. Through legal deposit regulations, it became the primary repository for the country's national documentation.

The library provides separate reading spaces for children, adults, and researchers, reflecting the linguistic diversity of Mauritanian society. This arrangement allows different visitors to access materials in their preferred languages and formats.

The library is located in Nouakchott and maintains several branch locations across the country, providing broader access to resources. Visitors should be aware that collections are available in French and Arabic as well as in local languages.

The library is the responsible institution for compiling and maintaining the National Bibliography of Mauritania, a comprehensive record of all works published in the country. This role makes it an essential documentation center for Mauritania's written culture.

Location: Nouakchott

Inception: 1965

GPS coordinates: 18.08592,-15.97505

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:22