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Grāmata Latvijā

Permanent exhibition of the Latvian National Library in the Gaismas pils (Castle of Light), on the history of book culture in Latvia in a world context; free admission.

Opening hoursFree admission Wheelchair accessible Café

About the museum

The exhibition “Grāmata Latvijā” (The Book in Latvia) is the permanent exhibition of the Latvian National Library, in the library building at Mūkusalas iela 3. It is a story inspired by the 21st century and the library's new model, on the history of book culture in Latvia in a world context. The centre of the exhibition is the book – both as a material object and as a social and spiritual phenomenon that influences society and people's lives.

The exhibition has four parts. The section on the history of book culture shows books that have significantly influenced Latvian culture and national identity. The section “Maņas” (Senses) is devoted to the reader's physical experience – the book can be experienced through touch, hearing, sight and taste. “Vara” (Power) looks at the book as an instrument of power, while “Gars” (Spirit), with the help of a “living” book installation, allows visitors to enter the fantasy world of books.

At a time when Latvia is marking 500 years since the first book published in Latvian, the exhibition is a place to survey the whole panorama of Latvian book culture. Modern design and interactive solutions make it engaging for different audiences.

Highlights

  • Panorama of the history of book culture in Latvia
  • Books that have shaped the identity of the nation
  • Four parts: history, “Maņas” (Senses), “Vara” (Power) and “Gars” (Spirit)
  • “Living” book installation
  • Free admission in the Gaismas pils (Castle of Light)

Permanent exhibition

  • Grāmata Latvijā – The permanent exhibition tells the history of book culture in Latvia in four parts – history, “Maņas” (Senses), “Vara” (Power) and “Gars” (Spirit) – with interactive solutions.
Operated by
Latvijas Nacionālā bibliotēka

Admission & discounts

Admission is free.

Adultsfree

Admission to the exhibition is free.

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Elevator: no information
  • Accessible restroom: no information
  • Accessible parking: no information
  • Service dogs welcome: no information
  • Tactile models & exhibits: no information
  • Sign language tours: no information
  • Easy-to-read materials: no information
  • Audio description: no information

The exhibition is suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

  • Family tours & workshops
  • Baby changing facilities

Families with children have a separate offer, and the building has a room for changing and feeding babies.

Getting there & parking

By public transit

Nacionālā bibliotēka

Buses No. 3, 4, 8, 21, 22, 38, 39 and trams No. 1, 5, 8, 10, 14 to the stop “Nacionālā bibliotēka” (National Library).

Get directions

Amenities & dining

  • Café

Cafés operate in the library building.

Events & venue rental

  • Spaces for rent

Plan your visit

School programsyes
Good to knowMuseum educators offer lessons for pupils; information and registration: gramata.latvija@lnb.lv.

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Grāmata LatvijāOpening hoursFree admission
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