The Austrian National Library’s 650th Anniversary

In 2018, the Austrian National Library, one of the country’s most venerable cultural and academic institutions, will be celebrating its 650th anniversary. You can look forward to a colourful table of events and are invited to join us in celebrating our » rich history.

Exhibitions marking the anniversary year 

The jubilee exhibition at the Baroque State Hall will be a focal point of interest. Entitled »A Treasure Trove of Knowledge – 650 Years of Austrian National Library, the show will present the most fascinating objects from our collections in the context of the history of their acquisitions. The series » Objects of the Month will be a special highlight: beginning in January, each month a particular evening will be dedicated to a different exhibit that will be presented and explained by our experts – a unique opportunity to familiarise oneself with the library’s most fascinating holdings.

The Literature Museum’s temporary exhibition at the Grillparzerhaus will be devoted to » Central Figures of Viennese Modernism: the composer Alban Berg, the philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein, and the journalist, art patron, and legendary salonière Berta Zuckerkandl.

Further events during the anniversary year 

On 6 May 2018, the Austrian National Library will invite all those interested to a big Open House event. This will be a rare occasion to look behind the scenes of Austria’s largest library.

“Rethinking Libraries – From the Historical Library to the Library of the Future” is the title of an academic symposium to be held. Moreover, in a series entitled “The Library in Film”, Vienna’s Metro Kinokulturhaus will present cinematographic works starring libraries and books. The programme at the Literature Museum will feature authors in several of talks and readings; for example, they will look into the dilemma of “Reading! But what?” In addition, a gala concert and the Musical Salons will highlight the importance and radiant energy of music.

You will find more details about our anniversary events in our » Annual Program, while our » App will provide you with an overview of our current activities.

Be in for a surprise! I wish you fascinating, inspiring, and entertaining hours during this anniversary year at the Austrian National Library.

Dr Johanna Rachinger
Director-General