Libraries

In the autumn of 2024, a new page was turned in the history of Latvian libraries – two libraries were reorganised during the internal consolidation at the University of Latvia (UL), forming a new UL institution. On 16 October 2024, the new Library of the University of Latvia began its work, uniting the largest state-level library of a Latvian higher education institution – the UL Library and one of the earliest libraries in Europe – the UL Academic Library.

It is an important national-scale event, as the newly formed library is vested with an accountability to the Latvian society, thinking about the scientific, intellectual and unique cultural and historical values held by UL in the global context, ensuring their availability and preservation for future generations.

The Library of the University of Latvia is the largest accredited state-level library of higher education institution in Latvia. On 15 June 2022, during the accreditation the Library of the University of Latvia was granted the status of a state-level library for the next 5 years (Library Accreditation Certificate No. 22C). Its main task is to support the study process and research at UL, providing high-quality information resources and services, which are quickly and conveniently made available to every user, employing modern technologies.

The UL Library holdings encompass around 3.2 million information resource units, – a key source for conducting studies and research. It is a public library that continues the path of excellence, complying with the principles of academic freedom, openness and cooperation.