National Library of Israel

In the heart of the historical Givat Ram campus that is steeped in greenery, is the National Library of Israel. Its building is a beautiful historical gem and one of the most impressive examples of modern architecture in Israel. Visitors to the building get to see the Ardon Windows, huge stain glass windows that present Jewish figures and symbols, from the Bible to Kabbalah, created by Mordecai Ardon one of the great painters and artists in the history of the state. The Ardon Windows are a point of interest, attracting visitors and leaving them amazed by the beauty and dimensions of this treasure.

The National Library, which has been functioning for over 120 years, holds around five million books and an innumerable amount of wonderful treasures, among them, ancient manuscripts, a unique collection of antique maps, books, magazines, posters, photographs, rare collections, including the biggest and most important collection of Jewish and Israeli music in the world.

The library, as one of the most important long-standing national institutions, curates the national memory of the Jewish nation and the State of Israel. The library is open to all and is a magnet not only for researches but also for the curious, for readers, youth and teenagers, with every visit exposing a different attraction.

The library invites you on a tour of the library that will expose you sections of its splendid collections. Tours are led skilled members of the library staff. Every guide comes from a different department of the library and bringing fascinating stories of the treasures in the library.

Following the tour visitors are invited to return for a “visit” via the library website that gives access to a large portion of the materials.

The library also organizes different cultural events such as lectures, seminars, concerts, exhibitions, performances and educational programs for children. The public is welcome to join the library mailing list to keep in touch after their visit and get periodic updates on the latest events.

Tours may be booked in advance.

Photos by Hanan Cohen

Contact