National Library of Kazakhstan
The National Library in Almaty boasts a long history and a vast collection of literary works. The library's expansion over the years, both in terms of visitors and its book stock, underscores its significance as the main book fund of the country. The library has a collection of approximately 8 million books.
Two notable centers, the Abai Literary Center and the Al-Farabi Scientific Center, operate within the library premises. These centers provide opportunities for individuals to explore the works of influential figures like Abai and Al-Farabi. The library often hosts activities such as poetry readings, book exhibitions, literary reviews, and more.
The building of the National Library, constructed in 1970, boasts a glass facade and modern design and reflects a departure from Stalinist architecture. The intention behind this design is to create an environment that encourages focus on mental enrichment and minimizes distractions. The presence of 14 spacious reading rooms, accommodating up to 1,500 people, with excellent sound insulation further enhances the library's atmosphere of concentration.
The library consists of the following halls:
- Hall of O. Zhandosov: Dedicated to the library's first director, it focuses on publications in the Kazakh language.
- Hall for Scientists
- Hall of World Literature: Showcasing publications from various countries.
- Hall of Periodicals: Housing Kazakh and Russian newspapers and magazines.
- Hall of Arts: Featuring literature about the arts, a substantial collection of vinyl records.
- Hall of rare books and manuscripts: Home to valuable historical items, including the 12th-century Koran and the 18th-century Shahnameh by Ferdowsi.
- Hall of Theses: Storing over 70,000 candidate and doctoral theses from the CIS countries.
- Hall of Catalogs
- Hall of National Bibliography
- Library Science Hall of R. Berdigaliev
- Hall of Kazakh National Customs and Traditions
- Event Hall
- Great Hall (300 seats): For larger gatherings and events.
How to register at the library?
Residents of the Republic of Kazakhstan are required to carry a valid ID, while citizens of other countries must present their passports upon entry to the library. The library provides two options for access: a "standard" ticket, valid for five years, and a "tourist" ticket, which is valid for a single day. Upon completion of a brief form, visitors are issued a reader's card along with a specific document designating the visited hall.
Address: Almaty, 14 Abay Ave.
How to get there?
You can reach the library by buses #3, 57, 65, 66, 79, 99, 118, 120, 128, or trolleybuses #11, 19, and 25. The Abay subway station is just 800 m (875 yd) away.
Opening hours:
Tue-Sun from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Mon – closed
Other tourist attractions near the library:
- Independence Monument and Republic Square
- Dawn of Freedom Monument
- Lermontov Russian Drama Theater
- Memorial to Denis Ten
- Panfilov Street
- Jetysu Fountain
- Golden Square of Almaty
Recommended tours:
View all offers-1_420x650_4ab.jpg "Almaty Highlights: City Tour")
Embark on a captivating 3-hour tour where you'll explore Almaty's prominent attractions. Visit the Museum of Almaty, marvel at the exquisite Ascension Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of trade at the Green Bazaar.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Almaty Highlights: Mountain Tour")
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking mountain landscapes just a stone's throw away from the center of Almaty! Explore the awe-inspiring wonders nestled in the Ile-Alatau Mountains and ascend to an elevation of 2260 meters above sea level.
_420x650_4ab.jpg "Ultimate Almaty Day Tour")
A fantastic option for a day-long adventure that involves discovering Almaty's most fascinating landmarks. This excursion allows you to explore the best attractions of Almaty and also takes you to an elevation of 2260 meters above sea level, providing a delightful experience amidst the breathtaking mountain landscapes.