Bologna's best libraries to study and relax

Backed by its rich academic and cultural history, Bologna provides a wide variety of libraries. Whether you are an avid reader, a student looking for a quiet place to investigate or simply a culture lover, Bologna is sure to find a solution for you.

An overview of Bologna's libraries, where you can read, study or find information

Biblioteca Salaborsa - Piazza del Nettuno, 3

Located in the heart of the city, the Salaborsa is Bologna's central library. In addition to its large collection of books, magazines and multimedia resources for all ages, it is known for its glass floor allowing glimpses of the archaeological excavations below. The Salaborsa is a great place to study thanks to its many reading rooms. It hosts frequent cultural events, exhibitions and book presentations, making it a lively hub for Bolognese culture.

Biblioteca dell'Archiginnasio - Piazza Galvani, 1

Housed in the university's oldest building, this library - founded in 1801 - is famous for its splendid Renaissance architecture and the frescoes throughout its halls. Most importantly, the Archiginnasio Library is a valuable resource for scholars and researchers, with its vast collection of manuscripts, incunabula and rare works. An ancient and fascinating library for those who want to delve deep into history and culture.

©Stefano Laddomada for Fondazione Bologna Welcome

University Library – Via Zamboni, 35

Bologna University Library is one of the main assets for students attending the university today. Founded in 1712, this extensive library offers a wide range of academic resources, including books, periodicals, manuscripts and digital material. The library is equipped with numerous study rooms, some of which are also open in the evenings, making it an ideal place for students who need a quiet and comfortable environment to prepare for exams.

Women's Library – Via del Piombo, 5

We cannot fail to mention the specialised library dedicated to the documentation and promotion of women's history and culture, with a vast collection of books, magazines, documents and historical archives. A quiet place to read and study, the library also offers a large number of events, seminars and workshops dealing with topics related to women and feminism. 

Biblioteca Istituto Storico Parri - Via Sant'Isaia, 18

This institution, along with its archive, founded in 1963, preserves and disseminates important sources on contemporary history, specifically:

World War I and II, fascism, anti-fascism, the Liberation War, post-war and reconstruction, the Italian Republic and the teaching of history. The library is an excellent place to read and study, while being entertained by themed events and exhibitions.

Carducci's House - Piazza Giosuè Carducci, 5

This building, now a museum, has been the home of the famous poet-professor Giosuè Carducci since 1890. With its original core comprising a collection of Carducci's original writings and study texts on his persona, the library has now become a specialised institute oriented towards knowledge, study and research on Italian and European literary culture of the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum includes a consultation room and hosts frequent events and book presentations. 

Don't miss other exclusive libraries

Check out these neighbourhood libraries and their activities:

• Biblioteca Amilcar Cabral - Via San Mamolo, 24
• Biblioteca Borgo Panigale - Via Legnano, 2
• Biblioteca Corticella - Via Gorki, 14
• Biblioteca Lame - Via Marco Polo, 21/13
• Biblioteca Jorge Luis Borges - Via dello Scalo 21/2 Bologna
• Biblioteca Tassinari Clò - Via di Casaglia, 7
• Biblioteca Natalia Ginzburg - Via Genova, 10
• Biblioteca Luigi Spina - Via Tommaso Casini, 5
• Biblioteca Casa di Khaoula - Via di Corticella, 104
• Biblioteca Scandellara - Via Scandellara, 50
• Biblioteca Pezzoli - Via Battindarno, 123

Bologna celebrates knowledge and culture through its well-stocked libraries, not only by preserving information, but also by uniting different communities for them to meet, learn and develop together.