Libraries in Italy
What you should know
The library structure in Italy is generally poor and nowhere near as good as those of the UK and US. Libraries are likely to be small, rather inefficiently run places, where locating a book can take weeks rather than minutes.
However, there’s a large state-owned library in every city, which may have a small foreign-language section. To become a member you must provide identity and a number of photographs. State-owned libraries are usually open from around 10am to 5pm or sometimes a little later on a couple of days per week.
Rome and Florence house the most English-language libraries, including those of American universities and English-language churches; the Harold Acton Library in Florence is one of the largest English-language libraries in continental Europe.
The British Council has a library at its branches, expatriate associations and clubs often run book-lending services or libraries (e.g. the Santa Susanna Lending Library in Rome), and foreign embassies house reference libraries, although you need an appointment to use these.
Most private libraries require annual membership, for which there’s usually a small fee. Ask at local consulates and expatriate clubs for information.
This article is an extract from Living and Working in Italy. Click here to get a copy now.
Further reading
- Being Italian: An insight into Italian stereotypes
- Tipping: What you need to consider when tipping in Italy
- Social customs in Italy: Traditions and habits
- Religion in Italy: A Christian country
- Population in Italy: Who are the Italians?
- The Italian Police: Carabinieri, state police and local police
- Government in Italy: President, parliament, political parties and elections
- Crime in Italy: Burglary, theft and organized crime
- Restaurants in Italy: Menus, wine, rating and prices
- Bars & cafes: Going out in Italy
- Nightlife in Italy: General information and tips
- Gambling in Italy: Plenty of opportunities
- Cinema in Italy: History and programming
- Music & ballet: An introduction to Italian music
- Opera & theatre: Cultural offers in Italy
- Museums, Galleries & Churches in Italy: What you should know
- Festivals and fiestas in Italy: Time to party
- Tourist offices in Italy: General information and tips
- Eating in Italy: How Italians eat
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