Written by Adrien Mercat (2024)

INtroduction

The National Parliamentary Library is the largest research library in Georgia, preserving the country's published materials. It does not hold manuscripts and government archives which are available at the Georgian National Center of Manuscripts and the National Archives of Georgia, respectively. The library's collection of periodicals and books is partly available online through the digital library Iverieli. However, a large segment of materials from the physical and the online library is only accessible on site.

The main branch is open every day from 9:30am to 8pm.

Location: Google Maps

GOING THERE

The library's main branch is centrally located behind the Georgian National Museum, on a street running parallel to Rustaveli Avenue. It is easily accessible by bus or metro. The nearest stop to the library is "Liberty Square."

GETTING IN

Before entering the library, you must obtain a library card from the office located at the Purtseladze Street entrance. An ID or passport is required for registration which is free-of-charge. Note that the office hours differ from the main library's: it is open from 10:00am to 6:00pm. The entrance to the library requires passing through airport-style security. No printed materials may be brought into the library. Notebooks and laptop computers are allowed.

Finding your material

The library's catalog can be accessed online or on computers in the reading room. The National Parliamentary Library is housed in seven buildings, though most collections are accessible in the main branch, some materials may be kept in its subsidiaries. It is important to check the location of materials beforehand and whether readings rooms might be related to your research topic (e.g. Periodicals Reading Hall, or Vine and Wine Reading Hall; see full list on the library's website.)

Ordering your material

To order material, you will need to fill out a slip of paper twice and bring it to two different librarians before taking it to a third one who will fetch your materials. The librarians will assist you in the process which is a little time-consuming. It is important to always keep the slip you are given and to report any damage to the books or periodicals before viewing them.

Ordering scans

Library users are allowed to make copies or use the library's book scanner with a librarian's assistance. The librarians allow users to photograph materials with their phones on an adhoc basis.

Food and well-being

There are many restaurants as well as a mall in the area. There's a bathroom near the Main Reading Room.