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National Library and Archives of Iran

4.4
·320 reviews·Tehran, Iran

Iran's premier library and archive, offering vast collections, serene study halls, and cultural exhibitions.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more seats

CrowdLow
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National Library and Archives of Iran - Image 1

National Library and Archives of Iran

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more seats

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iran's premier library and archive, offering vast collections, serene study halls, and cultural exhibitions.

4.4
(320 reviews)

"The greatest library in Iran, a motivated space for study and connection."

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TIP

🎯 Membership Registration

Check the official website for MA/PhD requirements. Annual fee is minimal! :ticket:

📚 Study Hall Rules

General Hall: Bring your books. Special Hall: Library books only. :books:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Study Halls

The Grand Study Halls

General and Special Study Halls

Two serene spaces for focused learning, one allowing personal books, the other dedicated to library resources.

Archival Collections

Archival Collections

Archives

Discover a vast collection of published works from Iran, offering a deep dive into the nation's literary history.

Exhibition Space

Exhibition Space

Inside the Library

Explore rotating exhibitions featuring paintings, scripts, and historical books, adding an artistic dimension to your visit.

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Planning Your Visit

Membership Essentials

To access the National Library and Archives of Iran, you'll need to register. Requirements typically include an MA or PhD degree, though it's best to check their website for the latest details. The annual membership fee is very affordable, often less than a dollar.

Study Hall Etiquette

The library offers distinct study halls. The General Hall allows you to bring your own books, while the Special Hall is for library materials only, with laptops and papers permitted. Respect the quiet atmosphere for focused study.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more seats
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Students thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎯 Membership Registration

Check the official website for MA/PhD requirements. Annual fee is minimal! :ticket:

📚 Study Hall Rules

General Hall: Bring your books. Special Hall: Library books only. :books:

🍽️ Dining Options

Warm your own meals or buy Iranian dishes. Cafeteria has cake too! :forkandknife:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Exhibitions

Don't miss the art, scripts, and old book displays inside. :art:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Membership Registration

Check the official website for MA/PhD requirements. Annual fee is minimal! :ticket:

📚 Study Hall Rules

General Hall: Bring your books. Special Hall: Library books only. :books:

🍽️ Dining Options

Warm your own meals or buy Iranian dishes. Cafeteria has cake too! :forkandknife:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Exhibitions

Don't miss the art, scripts, and old book displays inside. :art:

📱 Stay Informed

Follow their Telegram channel for event updates. :iphone:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(320 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the National Library and Archives of Iran as a premier study destination with an affordable membership and a vast collection of Iranian publications. The serene study halls, pleasant green surroundings, and engaging exhibitions are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some find public transport access challenging during peak hours.

"It's An Excellent place for study, the greatest library in Iran. All books that are published in Iran must be found here.
Motivated space and people in here that you can join bad connect with them and share academic experiences.
Literally the Membership of the natural library of Iran has some requirements that you can visit on their website.
The membership fee is about one dollar per year :)"

Mir Erfan

"🥇I really love this place, so charming with genuine green landscape, two really quiet halls to read, which one you can bring books and the other one, bringing books is not allowed.

🥈 Also dining area with a huge oven which you could warm up your own meal in aluminum dishes, and also it serves approximately 6 or 7 different Iranian meals which you could buy.

🥇 There are several smoking areas.

🥈 You can borrow 3 books daily and at the end of the day you have to return them.

🥉 If you are PhD or higher degree, you are allowed to stay at night."

Nafis Parvin

"Great to see many students studying in this beautifully established library! Next to the Book Garden ( also love the place where you can find many foreign books translated into Persian), it has a nice floral setting and water!

One needs to register ( I think you need to be MA or PhD students or graduates but all on their website) and pay annual fee ( less than one usd). Access card is issued for the access ( need to physically present yourself).

One of my weekend hung out places, just to read books ( yes they do have English books) or have a piece of cake at the cafeteria. They have amazing exhibitions inside this Library - I love the paintings, scripts and old books just going around and seeing them. Amazing to find how “marriage certificate “ with guarantee if you get divorced!

If you are non Iranian, you may wish to call them in advance to see if you can visit this library in advance."

Yumiko

What People Like

Great study atmosphere
Affordable membership
Rich book collection

What People Dislike

Challenging public transport

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Traveling by bus or assigned van can be time-consuming, especially during peak hours (around 5-6 PM). It's advisable to check real-time public transport apps for the most efficient routes and schedules to avoid delays. Reddit

Information on parking availability is not widely shared, but given its central location, it's recommended to consider public transport or ride-sharing services to avoid potential parking hassles. Reddit

Non-Iranian visitors may wish to call in advance to confirm access policies and any specific requirements for international guests. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, and it's best to consult the official website or their Telegram channel for the most up-to-date information on daily and weekly operating times. Reddit

While specific accessibility details are not extensively documented online, it's recommended to contact the library directly to inquire about facilities for visitors with disabilities. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Membership typically requires an MA or PhD degree. You'll need to register in person and pay a small annual fee, which is usually less than one US dollar. Check their website for the most current eligibility criteria. Reddit

The membership fee is remarkably low, often costing around one dollar per year, making it very accessible for students and researchers. Reddit

Yes, an access card is issued upon successful registration and payment of the membership fee. You will need to present yourself physically to obtain this card. Reddit

PhD holders and those with higher degrees are permitted to stay at the library overnight, offering extended research opportunities. Reddit

While membership is required for full access and borrowing privileges, it's advisable to contact the library directly to inquire about options for day visits or access to specific exhibitions for non-members. Reddit

🎫 📚 Onsite Experience

The General Hall allows you to bring your own books, while the Special Hall is designated for using the library's collection only. Laptops and papers are permitted in the Special Hall. Reddit

Members can borrow up to three books daily. These books must be returned at the end of the day. Reddit

Yes, the library does have a collection of English books available for members to read and borrow. Reddit

Yes, there is a dining area where you can warm up your own meals or purchase a selection of Iranian dishes. A cafeteria also offers snacks like cake. Reddit

The library hosts various exhibitions, including paintings, calligraphy, and displays of old books, offering a cultural and artistic experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The library features a dining area with a large oven for warming personal meals. They also serve approximately 6-7 different Iranian dishes for purchase. Reddit

Yes, you can bring your own meals, and there's a dining area with an oven to heat them up. Reddit

Yes, there is a cafeteria where you can enjoy a piece of cake or other light refreshments. Reddit

While specific menu details aren't provided, Iranian cuisine often includes vegetarian dishes. It's best to inquire directly at the dining area for current offerings. Reddit

Pricing for the Iranian meals is not specified, but given the affordable membership fee, it's likely to be reasonably priced. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography rules can vary, especially in study areas and archives. It's best to check with library staff upon arrival or look for signage regarding photography restrictions. Reddit

Generally, photography might be allowed in common areas or exhibition spaces, but often restricted in quiet study zones to maintain a conducive learning environment. Reddit

Taking photos of library materials, especially rare or archival items, is usually prohibited to protect them. Always seek permission or adhere to posted guidelines. Reddit

Flash photography is almost always prohibited in libraries and archives as the light can damage delicate materials and disturb other patrons. Reddit

The exterior architecture, the green landscape, and potentially the exhibition areas might offer good photographic opportunities, provided photography is permitted. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the National Library and Archives of Iran is primarily an academic institution, families might find value in its exhibitions. The displays of paintings, scripts, and old books can be engaging for older children interested in art and history. Reddit The beautiful green landscape surrounding the library also offers a pleasant outdoor space for a brief respite. However, the quiet study halls are not suitable for young children, so visits might be best planned around exhibition times or for adults accompanying older students.

🎓 Academics and Researchers

This library is a goldmine for academics and researchers. The requirement for an MA or PhD degree for membership ensures a focused and serious research environment. Reddit The extensive collection of published works from Iran is invaluable for in-depth study. The availability of both General and Special study halls caters to different research styles, and the overnight stay option for PhD holders is a significant perk for intensive projects. Reddit

🌍 International Visitors

International visitors looking to explore Iran's literary and archival heritage should definitely consider a visit. It's advisable to contact the library in advance to clarify any specific entry requirements for non-Iranians. Reddit The library's collection includes English books, offering a familiar resource alongside Persian materials. Exploring the exhibitions can also provide cultural insights. Remember that public transport can be challenging during peak hours, so plan your travel accordingly. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Membership and Access

Gaining access to the National Library and Archives of Iran involves a straightforward membership process. As highlighted by visitors, the primary requirement is often an MA or PhD degree, though it's crucial to verify the latest criteria on their official website. Reddit The annual membership fee is exceptionally low, often costing less than a dollar, making it a highly accessible resource for students and researchers. Reddit Upon successful registration and payment, you'll receive an access card, which you must present for entry. This process typically requires your physical presence at the library. Reddit

For international visitors, it's recommended to contact the library in advance to confirm their visiting policies and any specific documentation needed. Reddit The library also maintains a Telegram channel, which is a valuable resource for staying informed about events, exhibitions, and any changes to operating hours or access policies. Reddit

Understanding the Study Environments

The library offers two distinct study environments designed to cater to different needs: the General Hall and the Special Hall. In the General Hall, patrons are permitted to bring their own books, providing a familiar and comfortable space for those who prefer to study with their personal resources. Reddit This hall is ideal for students who have brought specific textbooks or research materials with them.

The Special Hall, on the other hand, is reserved for using the library's own collection. While you cannot bring external books into this area, it is a strictly quiet zone where laptops and papers are allowed. Reddit This setup ensures an undisturbed atmosphere for deep concentration, making it suitable for intensive research or academic work. Both halls are situated within a beautifully landscaped area, contributing to a pleasant and motivating study experience. Reddit

Beyond Books: Exhibitions and Amenities

The National Library and Archives of Iran is more than just a repository of books; it's a cultural hub. Visitors often praise the amazing exhibitions held within the library, which showcase a variety of art forms including paintings, intricate scripts, and historical manuscripts. Reddit These exhibitions offer a unique glimpse into Iran's rich artistic and historical heritage, adding significant value to a visit.

For practical needs, the library is well-equipped. There's a dining area that serves a selection of Iranian meals and also provides facilities to warm up your own food. Reddit Additionally, a cafeteria is available for lighter refreshments like coffee and cake. Reddit For those who need to stay connected or informed, the library maintains a Telegram channel, which is a convenient way to receive updates on events and activities. Reddit

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