Bibliothèque de Genève

Bibliothèque de Genève is a research library located in Bastions Park that houses extensive collections distributed across several buildings throughout the city. It provides access to historical documents, rare books, and digital resources for researchers and the public.

The library was founded in 1559 as part of the Geneva Academy and pioneered one of Europe's earliest systems for preserving all local publications. Over time it grew into one of the continent's major research institutions.

The library holds works connected to thinkers who shaped Geneva's intellectual life and preserves documents that reveal how ideas moved through the city. These collections show what mattered to people here across different periods.

The library is easily accessible on weekdays and offers both on-site and online access to its collections for various research needs. Visitors should note that certain rare materials require advance consultation arrangements.

The collection holds tens of thousands of maps dating back to the 16th century showing how the world was understood geographically at different times. It also preserves vast poster collections that document how the city itself changed over the centuries.

Location: Genève-Cité

Location: Geneva

Inception: 1559

Operator: Ville de Genève

Part of: list of cultural properties in Geneva

Address: Promenade des Bastions 1, 1205 Genève

Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 09:00-18:00 "Prêt à domicile et libre accès"; Saturday 09:00-12:00 "Prêt à domicile et libre accès"

Website: https://bge-geneve.ch

GPS coordinates: 46.19890,6.14530

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:06