Best Bookstores & Libraries in Prague, Czechia

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Best Bookstores & Libraries in Prague, Czechia

1. Strahov Library

A Baroque library located within the Strahov Monastery offering a unique collection of ancient books and manuscripts.
  • Historical Significance: Established in the 17th century, it's one of Europe's oldest libraries.
  • Unusual Architecture: Features a stunning fresco by František Boleslav Hrachovský depicting the history of philosophy.
  • Access to Rare Books: Offers access to ancient books and manuscripts for academic research.

2. Municipal Library of Prague - Veletržní palác

A modern library housed in an Art Deco building offering a vast collection of books, magazines, and multimedia resources.
  • Size and Variety: One of the largest libraries in Europe with over 2 million items.
  • Art Deco Architecture: Features stunning Art Deco design elements, making it a must-see attraction.
  • Multimedia Resources: Offers access to digital resources, audio books, and multimedia materials.

3. Masarykova knihovna (Masaryk Library)

Located within the National Museum of Prague, it's one of the oldest and largest libraries in the country.
  • Historical Importance: Founded in 1817, it has played a crucial role in preserving Czech literature and culture.
  • Wide Selection of Books: Offers a vast collection of books, including many rare and valuable titles.
  • Access to Scholarly Resources: Provides academic research materials for scholars and researchers.

4. Knihovna v Paláci Kinských (Library in Palace Kinsky)

A beautiful library located within the Kinsky Palace, offering a unique collection of historical books and manuscripts.
  • Historical Significance: The palace dates back to the 17th century, with the library retaining its original Baroque décor.
  • Rare Books and Manuscripts: Houses a unique collection of rare books, including first editions by Shakespeare and Dante.
  • Exclusive Tours: Offers guided tours for visitors interested in the history and architecture of the palace.

5. Knihovna Národní technické knihovny (Library of National Technical Library)

A specialized library focusing on technology and engineering, offering a unique collection for students and researchers.
  • Specialized Collection: Focuses on technology, engineering, and related fields, making it a valuable resource for students and researchers.
  • Digital Resources: Offers extensive digital resources, including online databases, e-journals, and digital libraries.
  • Interdisciplinary Studies: Supports interdisciplinary studies by offering materials from various fields related to technology and engineering.

6. Luxferrina Bookshop

An antiquarian bookstore specializing in rare and valuable books, maps, and manuscripts.
  • Rare Books and Manuscripts: Specializes in rare and valuable books, maps, and manuscripts from various historical periods.
  • Personalized Service: Offers personalized service and expertise to help customers find specific titles or collections.
  • Unique Collection: Boasts a unique collection of books, maps, and manuscripts, making it a must-visit for bibliophiles.

7. Alchymistická knihovna (The Alchemist's Library)

A magical bookstore located within a medieval courtyard, offering a wide variety of fantasy and science fiction books.
  • Themed Atmosphere: Set in a medieval courtyard, the store maintains an enchanting atmosphere perfect for fantasy lovers.
  • Wide Selection of Fantasy and Sci-fi: Offers an extensive collection of fantasy and science fiction books from various genres and authors.
  • Cultural Events: Hosts cultural events, author readings, and fantasy-themed workshops throughout the year.

8. The British Library Prague Centre

A branch of the British Library in London offering a wide range of British literature, as well as resources for research and study.
  • Access to British Literature: Offers a vast collection of British literature, including contemporary and classic titles.
  • Research Resources: Provides research resources for scholars and researchers studying the UK and its culture.
  • British Cultural Events: Hosts British cultural events, film screenings, and author readings throughout the year.

9. Knihovna Týn (Tyn Library)

A small but charming library located within the Old Town Square, offering a unique selection of books and a cozy atmosphere.
  • Cozy Atmosphere: Located within the heart of Old Town Square, it offers a warm, inviting ambiance.
  • Unique Selection: Offers a unique selection of books that cannot be found in larger libraries.
  • Quiet Study Space: Provides a quiet and peaceful space for reading and studying, away from the bustling city streets.

10. Knihovna Lidové univerzity (Library of People's University)

A community library offering a wide variety of books, workshops, and cultural events for the public.
  • Community Engagement: Focuses on engaging the local community by offering resources, workshops, and cultural events.
  • Variety of Resources: Offers a wide variety of resources, including books, magazines, DVDs, and audiobooks.
  • Cultural Events: Hosts cultural events, author readings, and workshops throughout the year.

11. Knihovna Dětská univerzita (Children's University Library)

A library dedicated to children offering a wide variety of books, workshops, and activities.
  • Child-friendly Environment: Designed with a child-friendly environment, making it easy for young readers to access materials.
  • Wide Variety of Children's Books: Offers a vast collection of children's books in various languages and genres.
  • Workshops and Activities: Hosts workshops, activities, and story hours for children throughout the year.

12. Knihovna Vojenské akademie (Military Academy Library)

A specialized library focusing on military history and strategy, offering a unique collection for students and researchers.
  • Specialized Collection: Focuses on military history, strategy, and related fields, making it a valuable resource for students and researchers.
  • Digital Resources: Offers extensive digital resources, including online databases, e-journals, and digital libraries.
  • Interdisciplinary Studies: Supports interdisciplinary studies by offering materials from various fields related to military history and strategy.

13. Knihovna Akademie múzických umění (Academy of Performing Arts Library)

A specialized library focusing on music and performing arts, offering a unique collection for students and researchers.
  • Specialized Collection: Focuses on music, theater, and related fields, making it a valuable resource for students and researchers.
  • Digital Resources: Offers extensive digital resources, including online databases, e-journals, and digital libraries.
  • Interdisciplinary Studies: Supports interdisciplinary studies by offering materials from various fields related to music and performing arts.

14. Knihovna Národní galerie (National Gallery Library)

A specialized library focusing on art history, offering a unique collection for students and researchers.
  • Specialized Collection: Focuses on art history, making it a valuable resource for students and researchers.
  • Digital Resources: Offers extensive digital resources, including online databases, e-journals, and digital libraries.
  • Interdisciplinary Studies: Supports interdisciplinary studies by offering materials from various fields related to art history.

15. Knihovna Klementinum (Klementinum Library)

A historic library located within the Klementinum complex, offering a unique collection of books, manuscripts, and maps.
  • Historical Significance: Established in the early 18th century, it's one of the oldest libraries in Europe.
  • Unusual Architecture: Features stunning Baroque architecture and a unique collection of historical books, manuscripts, and maps.
  • Access to Rare Books and Manuscripts: Offers access to rare books, manuscripts, and maps for academic research.