National Library of Latvia
About
The National Library of Latvia (NLL), housed in the striking Castle of Light (Gaismas pils) on Krišjāņa Barona Ave., is a cornerstone of Latvia’s cultural and intellectual life. Opened in 2014 after a century of planning, the 68‑metre high, 13‑floor building, designed by Latvian‑American architect Gunnar Birkerts, showcases a modern interpretation of a Latvian mythic symbol. Inside, the library preserves a vast collection of more than four million volumes, including rare Latvian manuscripts, encyclopaedic atlases, and a growing digitised repository known as Letonica, which offers free access to historical newspapers, maps, and literary works. The building also hosts lecture halls, a media centre and conference facilities, making it a vibrant hub for research, education, and cultural events. Visitors can explore the library’s galleries of Latvian literature, discover multilingual catalogues, and enjoy a panoramic view of Riga’s skyline from the reading rooms. The NLL remains open to the public daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with extended hours on special occasions. Guided tours are available, and the library encourages both casual and scholarly visitors to experience Latvia’s literary heritage.
Highlights
- Castle of Light Design
- Extensive Latvian Collection
- Letonica Digital Library
- Panoramic Viewpoint
- Conference Facilities
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Late spring to early autumn (May‑September) offers the most pleasant weather and the fullest programme of exhibitions. Winter evenings are also lively, featuring cultural events and quieter museum visits.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes