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Swiss National Library

The Swiss National Library collects Helvetica – texts, images and sounds from Switzerland – and, through its collections, safeguards the country’s collective memory. In cooperation with other institutions, it provides broad access to Switzerland’s cultural heritage.

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Around eight million documents are available at the Swiss National Library (NL): publications by Swiss authors, works from or about Switzerland, as well as all Swiss newspapers and magazines.

The National Library houses a large collection of geographical maps and sheet music, alongside numerous digital publications. Visitors can explore the “Web Archive Switzerland”, browse through the documents of the Swiss Literary Archives, the Prints and Drawings Department or listen to recordings from the extensive sound archive of the National Sound Archives. Borrowing publications is free of charge.

Modern white office building with large windows, glass entrance doors and a neatly trimmed hedge along the pavement.
A blurred person walks past a gallery wall on which various colourful collages and works of art are displayed in frames.

The Swiss National Library features a spacious reading room for research and study, and an exhibition space where it regularly showcases objects and works from its archives and addresses topics that shape Swiss society. A variety of events are also held: readings, talks, panel discussions, literary evenings or special offers during major events such as the Museum Night in Bern.

As Switzerland’s central memory institution, the Swiss National Library builds a bridge from the past through the present into the future. It reflects the country’s diversity and multilingualism and fosters both community and innovation. The Swiss National Library is an institution of the Federal Office of Culture.

Part of the Museum Quarter Bern

The Swiss National Library is part of the Museum Quarter Bern. This vibrant hub brings together culture, history, science, art and innovation, offering a rich interplay of impressions and emotions. Eleven institutions in total form this network.

Location

Hallwylstrasse 15
3005 Bern

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