Main Library North Area, National Library of China

The Main Library North Area spans multiple levels with reading rooms and exhibition spaces set within contemporary architecture. The layout allows visitors to move easily between study areas and display galleries throughout the building.

A German architecture firm designed this addition to the National Library of China, opening in 2008 as part of an expansion. The project was undertaken to accommodate growing collections and provide larger access spaces for the public.

The facility holds collections in many languages and hosts exhibitions, workshops, and lectures that bring people together around shared interests. These spaces show how libraries serve as meeting points where visitors encounter ideas and perspectives from different parts of the world.

The location sits near public transportation and is open to visitors from Tuesday through Sunday. It helps to check ahead about access requirements, as some areas may require advance arrangements for your visit.

The building uses specialized systems to protect rare manuscripts and historical documents while making millions of items available to the public. This balance between safeguarding treasures and opening them to visitors is a notable achievement for such vast and valuable collections.

Location: Zizhuyuan Subdistrict

Architects: KSP Jürgen Engel Architekten

Official opening: September 9, 2008

GPS coordinates: 39.94402,116.31713

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:05