Yakub Kolas Central Scientific Library, Research library at National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Minsk, Belarus
The Yakub Kolas Central Scientific Library is a research facility of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, holding over five million items including books, periodicals, and scientific publications across different disciplines. Materials are organized by classification system to help visitors find specialized resources for their research.
Founded on February 16, 1925, the facility started in two small rooms and gradually expanded into a major research institution. This growth allowed it to become central to academic work across Belarus and continue supporting scientific advancement in the country.
Named after Belarusian poet Yakub Kolas, the library holds manuscripts that show how literature and writing developed in Belarus. Visitors can see original printed works and handwritten collections that reflect the region's long tradition of preserving and sharing knowledge.
The facility provides workspaces for researchers and students to use the specialized collections organized by classification system. Visitors should plan their visit in advance and check access requirements, as they may vary depending on the type of materials you wish to consult.
The library sends teams on archival expeditions throughout Belarus to find and protect historical documents that help us understand the region's intellectual heritage. This fieldwork allows the institution to discover and preserve sources that might otherwise be lost.
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