Lebanese National Library
A stunning architectural marvel housing a unique collection of old books, offering a peaceful, museum-like experience in Beirut.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Lebanese National Library
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning architectural marvel housing a unique collection of old books, offering a peaceful, museum-like experience in Beirut.
"A beautiful construction that stands out, with a really old collection of books that are unique. A must visit."
Confirm Hours Before You Go
Website is outdated; call ahead or check recent visitor posts for current opening times. :iphone:
Be Prepared for Power Cuts
Electricity can be unreliable. Bring a book or enjoy the quiet if the lights go out. :bulb:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Architectural Grandeur
A beautiful, standout construction with a unique design, formerly the Faculty of Law.
Historic Book Collection
Discover a truly impressive and unique collection of old books, a testament to decades of restoration.
Peaceful Ambiance
Experience a calm and classy atmosphere, blending the feel of a museum with a vast library.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Hours
Embrace the Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Confirm Hours Before You Go
Website is outdated; call ahead or check recent visitor posts for current opening times. :iphone:
Be Prepared for Power Cuts
Electricity can be unreliable. Bring a book or enjoy the quiet if the lights go out. :bulb:
Appreciate the Architecture
The building itself is a major draw. Take time to admire its unique and beautiful construction. :camerawithflash:
It's Free to Visit!
Enjoy this cultural gem without an admission fee. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Hours Before You Go
Website is outdated; call ahead or check recent visitor posts for current opening times. :iphone:
Be Prepared for Power Cuts
Electricity can be unreliable. Bring a book or enjoy the quiet if the lights go out. :bulb:
Appreciate the Architecture
The building itself is a major draw. Take time to admire its unique and beautiful construction. :camerawithflash:
It's Free to Visit!
Enjoy this cultural gem without an admission fee. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Lebanese National Library is praised for its stunning architecture and impressive, unique collection of old books, offering a peaceful, museum-like atmosphere. However, visitors note inconsistent opening hours, potential power outages, and poor acoustics, with some criticizing the current management for limited accessibility. +2
"The National Library of Beirut. It was the Faculty of Law previously of the Lebanese University. It's really a beautiful construction that stands out in the area. Got a really old collection of books that are unique. A must visit."
Sacelace
"Open to the public and free to visit during my stay. However no electricity and terrible acoustics! I went to work but left after 30 minutes. The building looks nice from the outside, but the interior is very sterile and the selection of books is small."
Sebastian
"Honestly it’s such a calm and classy place I’m surprised it doesn’t have more recognition. Now the electricity did cut but that’s expected nowadays and also the place is still relatively new but it’s so peaceful and the book collection is impressive. It’s like if you mix a museum with a huge library"
Karim Ibrahim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The library is located in Beirut. Public transportation options might be limited, so consider a taxi or ride-sharing service. It's a beautiful construction that stands out in its area.
Information on dedicated parking is scarce. Street parking may be available, but it's advisable to check local conditions upon arrival or opt for alternative transport.
A taxi or ride-sharing app is likely the most straightforward method. The journey should be relatively short, allowing you to quickly reach this unique cultural spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Lebanese National Library is free for the public.
The library's opening hours can be inconsistent, and its website is not regularly updated. It's best to confirm current access directly or through recent visitor feedback.
Information regarding weekend opening hours is not consistently available. It's highly recommended to verify the schedule before planning a weekend visit.
Yes, the beautiful construction is a significant attraction. Visitors can admire the exterior and interior architecture even if not spending extensive time reading.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is described as calm and classy, blending the feel of a museum with a library. However, be aware of potential power outages and less-than-ideal acoustics.
While it offers a peaceful environment, inconsistent electricity and poor acoustics might make it challenging for focused study sessions.
The library boasts a really old and unique collection of books, a result of decades of restoration efforts.
Information on guided tours is not readily available. Visitors typically explore the space independently, appreciating the architecture and book collection.
Details on accessibility are limited. It's advisable to contact the library directly for specific information regarding ramps, elevators, or other facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted, and many visitors capture the beautiful construction and interior. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage.
The exterior of the building is striking, and the interior spaces with the book collections offer great photographic opportunities.
While not explicitly stated, it's always good practice to be respectful and avoid intrusive photography, especially if people are studying or resting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be aware that the library is a quiet space, and the potential for power outages and poor acoustics might not be ideal for very young children. It's best suited for families with older children who can appreciate the calm atmosphere and the historical significance of the book collection.
📚 Book Lovers & Researchers
While the library's management and accessibility have faced criticism, the sheer value of the collection and the architectural beauty of the building make it a worthwhile visit. Be prepared for a less-than-modern visitor experience, but one rich in historical depth.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Gem
The interior, while described as sterile by some, is also noted for its peaceful ambiance, blending the feel of a museum with a vast library. The building's aesthetic is a significant draw for many who visit.
Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the library's grandeur, from its exterior facade to its internal spaces. The building's distinctiveness makes it a memorable visual experience.
A Treasure Trove of Books
While the selection is noted as small by some, others find it extensive and remarkable. The sheer volume and historical significance of the books contribute to the library's cultural value.
It's important to note that the library's website is outdated, and information about its collection might not be easily accessible online. Visiting in person is the best way to experience this literary treasure.
Navigating the Experience
The acoustics are also mentioned as being terrible by some, which might impact the experience for those seeking absolute quiet for study. Despite these challenges, many find the library to be a peaceful and classy place.
Given the outdated website and infrequent updates, confirming opening hours directly is crucial. The management of the library has been criticized for not making it more accessible to the community, despite the wonderful building and collection.
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