The Russian State Library: A Must-Visit Destination for Book Lovers
If you’re a book lover looking for the ultimate place to explore and discover new books, then the Russian State Library is the perfect destination for you. Located in Moscow, the Russian State Library is the largest library in Russia and one of the oldest public libraries in the world.
The library’s vast collection of books and resources has been growing since it was first established in 1862. Today, the library boasts a collection of over 45 million items, including books, periodicals, newspapers, maps, manuscripts, photographs, and audio-visual materials. Its impressive collection of books covers a wide range of topics, from Russian and foreign literature to science, technology, history, philosophy, and more.
A Unique and Rich History
The library’s history is as unique as its collection. It was founded in 1862 by Tsar Alexander II, who wanted to create a library that would be accessible to the public. The library was first named the Imperial Public Library, and it was not until 1925 that it was given its current name, the Russian State Library.
Throughout its history, the library has been a place of knowledge and inspiration. It has been home to some of the world’s most renowned authors, scientists, and scholars, and many famous personalities such as Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoevsky, and Nikolai Gogol have spent time in its halls.
Explore the Rich Collection
The library’s collection is divided into two main sections: the general collection and the special collections. The general collection contains books on a wide variety of topics, including history, literature, science, philosophy, and more.
In addition to its general collection, the library also houses several special collections. These collections include the Rare Books Collection, which houses rare and valuable books from the 16th to the 20th centuries; the Manuscript Collection, which contains manuscripts from various authors; and the Print Collection, which holds prints from the 18th to the 20th centuries.
Visiting the Library
The Russian State Library is open to the public and visitors can explore the library’s vast collection. Visitors can also take part in various tours and events that are organized by the library. For example, the library hosts lectures, roundtable discussions, and film screenings throughout the year.
The library also offers library cards, which allow visitors to borrow books from its collection. Library cards are available for both Russian and foreign citizens and can be obtained at the library’s Information Desk.
Conclusion
The Russian State Library is a must-visit destination for book lovers and those who are looking to explore and discover new books. The library’s impressive collection of books, manuscripts, and prints is sure to provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. So, if you’re in Moscow, make sure to add the Russian State Library to your list of must-visit destinations.