Ústřední knihovna, Městská knihovna v Praze

Praha

Prague City Library is the largest public library network in Prague and one of the most important libraries in the Czech Republic. Its history dates back to 1891, when it was founded as the first public municipal library open to all citizens of Prague. From the beginning, it developed as a modern cultural and educational institution combining book lending, reading rooms, cultural events, and public education. After the creation of “Greater Prague” in 1922, the library expanded into a large centralized network of branches across the city. A major milestone came in 1928 with the opening of the new functionalist Central Library building at Mariánské Square, designed by architect František Roith. At the time, it was considered one of the most modern library buildings in Europe. The library went through difficult periods during the Nazi occupation and the communist era, when censorship, book removals, and political persecution affected both the collection and staff. After 1989, it gradually transformed into a modern open institution embracing digital technologies and new public services. Today, Prague City Library operates dozens of branches throughout Prague, offering books, music, films, educational and cultural programs, as well as extensive online services, making it one of the city’s key cultural institutions.