capital-region · Iceland
Reykjavík City Library — Modern Architecture & Books
Discover Reykjavík City Library, Iceland's largest public library, housed in a striking modernist building at Tryggvagata 15. Its distinctive blue-grey and red facade welcomes you to a world of 450,000 books and a vibrant literary atmosphere.
About Reykjavík City Library — Modern Architecture & Books
Discover Reykjavík City Library, Iceland's largest public library, housed in a striking modernist building at Tryggvagata 15. Its distinctive blue-grey and red facade welcomes you to a world of 450,000 books and a vibrant literary atmosphere.
History & Background
Reykjavík City Library, officially known as Borgarbókasafn Reykjavíkur, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1923. For many years, it operated from various locations across the city, serving the community's literary needs and growing alongside the burgeoning Icelandic capital. A significant milestone in its history was the opening of its current purpose-built home in 2011. This modern facility, located at Tryggvagata 15, was designed by the acclaimed Danish architectural firm schmidt hammer lassen. The architects envisioned a light-filled, contemporary library that would not only house an extensive collection but also embody the spirit of Iceland's unique literary culture. Iceland boasts the highest literacy rate in the world and an unparalleled passion for books, publishing approximately 1,000 new titles annually for a population of just 380,000. This translates to the highest per-capita book publication rate globally, with a remarkable one in ten Icelanders expected to publish a book in their lifetime. The Reykjavík City Library stands as a proud testament to this deep-seated cultural value, offering a vital space for reading, learning, and community engagement in a nation where stories are truly revered.
Did You Know?
- ✔Opened 2011 in modernist building
- ✔450,000 books — Iceland's largest public library
- ✔Free entry, free wifi, open to visitors
- ✔Large English-language section
- ✔Café with city views
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Book NowAbout Reykjavík City Library — Modern Architecture & Books
Reykjavík City Library (Borgarbókasafn Reykjavíkur), located at Tryggvagata 15, is Iceland's largest public library and a must-visit for culture enthusiasts. Opened in its current striking modernist building in 2011, designed by Danish architects schmidt hammer lassen, the library stands out with its distinctive geometric blue-grey facade and a vibrant red section at its base, as seen from the street. The name "GRÓFARHÚS" is prominently displayed vertically on its side. Inside, visitors are greeted by a light-filled, 6-story space designed to maximize natural light and city views. The collection boasts an impressive 450,000 books, including extensive Icelandic literature and a large international section, particularly in English. Beyond books, you'll find newspapers, magazines, maps, digital archives of Icelandic historical documents and photographs, music, films, and audiobooks. Facilities include comfortable reading rooms, many offering panoramic city views, a dedicated children's library with storytelling programs, bookable study rooms, and free computer access with wifi throughout the building. A convenient café is located on the ground floor. The library is open to everyone, offering free entry to browse, read, and use the wifi. While a library card is needed for borrowing, tourists can freely immerse themselves in this hub of Icelandic literary culture. Its central location near the Old Harbour makes it an easy and rewarding stop in your Reykjavík itinerary.
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Book NowHistory & Background
Reykjavík City Library, officially known as Borgarbókasafn Reykjavíkur, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1923. For many years, it operated from various locations across the city, serving the community's literary needs and growing alongside the burgeoning Icelandic capital. A significant milestone in its history was the opening of its current purpose-built home in 2011. This modern facility, located at Tryggvagata 15, was designed by the acclaimed Danish architectural firm schmidt hammer lassen. The architects envisioned a light-filled, contemporary library that would not only house an extensive collection but also embody the spirit of Iceland's unique literary culture. Iceland boasts the highest literacy rate in the world and an unparalleled passion for books, publishing approximately 1,000 new titles annually for a population of just 380,000. This translates to the highest per-capita book publication rate globally, with a remarkable one in ten Icelanders expected to publish a book in their lifetime. The Reykjavík City Library stands as a proud testament to this deep-seated cultural value, offering a vital space for reading, learning, and community engagement in a nation where stories are truly revered.
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Book NowStory & Folklore
Step into Grófarhús at Tryggvagata 15, home to Reykjavík City Library, a beacon of Iceland's profound love for literature. The building itself is a striking sight, with its geometric blue-grey facade accented by a bold red base, reaching skyward under an often dramatic Icelandic sky. Inside, the modern design by schmidt hammer lassen architects creates an airy, light-filled space, inviting you to explore 450,000 books spanning Icelandic sagas to international bestsellers. Imagine settling into a comfortable chair, a new book in hand, perhaps looking out towards the distant, snow-capped mountains visible on a clear day, or simply soaking in the quiet hum of a nation deeply connected to the written word. It's more than just a library; it's a living testament to a culture where stories are cherished and literacy reigns supreme.
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Book NowVisitor Information
Best Time
Any time during operating hours.
Duration
1-2 hours
Access
Located at Tryggvagata 15 in central Reykjavík, near the Old Harbour. Easily accessible by foot from downtown, or by public bus. Parking may be available nearby.
Why Visit
Explore Iceland's rich literary heritage in a stunning modern building, offering free wifi and panoramic city views.
Did You Know?
Iceland publishes more books per capita than any other nation, with the 'Christmas Book Flood' (jólabókaflóð) being a beloved annual tradition.
Where the Most Literate Nation Reads
Iceland publishes more books per person than anywhere on Earth. This library is where they read them — a modern temple to the written word.
Hidden Gems Nearby
The Top Floor Reading Room
The 6th floor reading room has floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic city views — reading here on a rainy day with the city spreading below is perfect contentment.
The Icelandic Saga Section
The library's Icelandic literature section includes sagas in English translation — if you've been curious about Egils Saga or Njáls Saga, this is where to read them.
Practical Information
Best Time
Any time during operating hours.
Duration
1-2 hours
Access
Located at Tryggvagata 15 in central Reykjavík, near the Old Harbour. Easily accessible by foot from downtown, or by public bus. Parking may be available nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entry fee for the Reykjavík City Library?▾
No, entry to the Reykjavík City Library is completely free for everyone.
Can tourists use the library's facilities, like Wi-Fi?▾
Yes, tourists are welcome to browse the collections, read in the comfortable spaces, and use the free Wi-Fi without needing a library card.
What are the operating hours?▾
The library is generally open Mon–Thu 10:00–19:00, Fri 11:00–18:00, Sat–Sun 13:00–17:00. It's always a good idea to check their official website for any holiday hours or changes.
Is the library wheelchair accessible?▾
Yes, the modern building is designed to be fully accessible, including elevators to all floors.
Does the library have books in English or other foreign languages?▾
Yes, the library has a large international section, including a significant collection of books in English, alongside Icelandic literature and other languages.