The KB is the national library of the Netherlands. It enables everyone in the Netherlands to research, read, discover and engage in lifelong learning, both at home and in the library, online and offline.
National Library of the Netherlands
The KB tries to collect everything written in and about the Netherlands. That's a lot of paper: more than 120 kilometres of written heritage is stored in the warehouse. In addition, more than 40 million newspapers, books, magazines and websites are stored digitally. Have you ever looked up an old newspaper or borrowed an e-book? Then you have probably also had dealings with the KB: services such as Delpher, DBNL and the online Library are also part of the KB.
Researchers can make use of digital resources containing articles, catalogues, images, dictionaries and more. We collaborate with local libraries to promote reading and support digital inclusion. Students are also welcome: our reading rooms are perfect places to study. All this is done to make lifelong learning possible for everyone.
Food and drink
Books and coffee are deliberately kept separate in the KB National Library to prevent accidents. On the ground floor, you can enjoy a cup of coffee or a soft drink and buy sandwiches and ice cream. There is also a restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious lunch every day until 2 p.m. In front of the entrance to the reading room, you will find the Plein, a kind of living room where you can sit and enjoy a cup of coffee.
Events
Have you always wanted to see how a medieval manuscript is photographed? Or would you like to discuss social issues with experts? The KB organises a wide variety of events. For example, you can attend a monthly KB College lecture, which gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the national library. At Club Erasmus, you can follow stimulating debates and in-depth interviews, for example in the monthly discussion On the Spot. The various display cases showcase the most beautiful items in the collection. You can also take a guided tour to learn more about the past and present of the KB in areas that are normally closed to the public. For everything you can experience at the KB, check out the library's calendar.
KB National Library
Practical information
The KB is located next to The Hague Central Station and is easily accessible by car or public transport. The public part of the building is accessible to everyone, but you need a membership or a free reading room pass to use the reading room. The KB has lifts and disabled toilets.
