National Library of Maldives

The National Library of Maldives in Malé holds collections in English, Dhivehi, Arabic, and Urdu, serving as a central space for reading and study. The building offers lending services and internet access to members who wish to use the materials and facilities.

It began in 1945 as the State Library and underwent name changes that reflected its growing importance to the nation over time. These shifts marked how the institution evolved from a local resource into a recognized national establishment.

The space reflects how people from the islands value reading in multiple languages and connect with both local and international voices. You can observe how the collection brings together Dhivehi literature alongside English and other language books, showing what matters to readers here.

The building is located in the central area and operates during extended hours reaching into the evening. You should know that membership is required to borrow books and access the full range of services available.

The street library program places books at various points around the city where local people can freely trade and share titles with one another. This approach brings reading into neighborhoods and everyday interactions, making literature a shared community activity beyond the main building.