10 Largest Libraries in the World for 2024
By priyanka roshan | aug 16, 2024
Libraries safeguard knowledge, preserving history and culture for future generations. In 2024, the world's ten largest libraries stand as pillars of global learning, each holding millions of items across diverse fields.
Denmark’s largest library, with 30.2 million items, serves as both a national and university library, reflecting the country's intellectual legacy.
(Source: Figures from the respective websites | Image: Canva)
The Danish Royal Library
Copenhagen, Denmark
The largest library in Asia, the National Library of China has over 35 million items, including extensive Chinese literature and historical documents.
(Source: Figures from the respective websites | Image: Canva)
The National Library of China
Beijing, China
The National Diet Library features over 36 million items, supporting Japan’s legislative process with its vast array of documents.
(Source: Figures from the respective websites | Image: Canva)
National Diet Library
Tokyo, Japan
This library holds over 37 million items, offering extensive resources for research and study.
(Source: Figures from the respective websites | Image: Canva)
National Library of Russia
St. Petersburg, Russia
With over 40 million documents, the BnF’s collection spans books, manuscripts, prints, and unique artifacts.
(Source: Figures from the respective websites | Image: Canva)
Bibliothèque Nationale de France
Paris, France
The Russian State Library houses more than 48 million items, including rare works in 367 languages.
(Source: Figures from the respective websites | Image: Canva)
Russian State Library
Moscow, Russia
Holding over 50 million items, this library features books, newspapers, maps, photographs, and digital records reflecting Canada’s rich cultural heritage.
(Source: Figures from the respective websites | Image: Canva)
Library and Archives Canada
Ottawa, Canada
The New York Public Library’s collection of over 54 million items includes books, e-books, and research materials used globally.
(Source: Figures from the respective websites | Image: Canva)
New York Public Library
New York, USA
(Source: Figures from the respective websites | Image: Canva)
With around 164 million items, the Library of Congress offers an unparalleled collection in numerous formats and languages.
Library of Congress
Washington D.C., USA
(Source: Figures from the respective websites | Image: Canva)
Boasting over 170 million items, the British Library is a vast repository of books, manuscripts, maps, and digital content.
British Library
London, UK