National Library of Laos

The National Library of Laos is a research institution located at a corner site near Thanon Setthathirat and Thanon Pangkham in Vientiane. It provides access to collections, computer facilities, and branch services available throughout the country.

The institution began operations in 1956 and moved to its own building in 1988, after previously sharing space with museum and anthropology departments. This relocation established it as an independent center for preserving the nation's knowledge.

The library safeguards ancient Lao manuscripts and Sanskrit texts that represent the written heritage of the nation. Visitors can see how the institution protects these fragile documents through modern digitalization efforts and makes them available to the public.

The building is easy to find at its corner location in central Vientiane and is accessible to visitors. Those interested should contact the office ahead of time to learn which services are available to the public.

Collections are stored in two countries: part of the digital holdings is kept in a library in Berlin to ensure the safety of the nation's literary heritage. This international arrangement shows how seriously the institution takes protecting knowledge for future generations.

Location: Vientiane

Inception: 1956

Website: http://nationallibraryoflaos.org

GPS coordinates: 17.96400,102.60790

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:50