National Library of Wales

You do not have to be a researcher to enjoy the National Library of Wales. Sitting high above Aberystwyth, it is one of the best places in town to discover Welsh history, see fascinating exhibitions and enjoy views across Cardigan Bay.

The building holds millions of books, photographs, maps, manuscripts, films and works of art, but as a visitor you can simply wander through the public exhibitions, stop for coffee and see what is currently on display.

Start with the Exhibitions

The exhibitions are the easiest way to experience the Library if you are visiting for pleasure rather than research.

Displays change throughout the year and draw on the Library’s enormous collections. You might see historic photographs, paintings, rare books, political material, maps or personal documents that tell the story of Wales from very different angles.

Entry to the exhibitions is free, so it is also a very good option when you want something interesting to do without spending anything.

See the Maps and Historic Collections

The Library holds one of the most important collections of material relating to Wales anywhere in the world.

Its map collection is particularly interesting because you can see how towns, coastlines and entire regions were recorded and understood centuries ago.

There are also manuscripts, newspapers, photographs, artworks, sound recordings and films. Only a fraction can ever be displayed at once, which is why the changing exhibitions are such an important part of a visit.

Visit with Children

Families are very welcome, and the Library is less formal than many people expect.

There is a play area for children aged three to seven, baby-changing facilities and enough open public space to make the visit manageable with younger children.

Older children may enjoy exhibitions connected with photography, maps, film or local history, especially if they recognise places they have already visited during the holiday.

Have a Look at the Reading Room

The Reading Room is where the Library becomes much more than a visitor attraction.

Anyone aged over 16 can register as a reader and request material from the collections. That means family historians, local-history researchers and anyone with a particular interest in Wales can go far beyond the public exhibitions.

You will need identification to register, so this is something to plan in advance if you specifically want to use the research facilities.

Stop at Caffi Pen Dinas

Caffi Pen Dinas is on the ground floor and is a very pleasant place to stop during the visit.

It serves meals, drinks and lighter food, with comfortable seating and views towards Cardigan Bay.

Even if you only spend an hour looking at the exhibitions, it is worth allowing a little extra time for coffee and the view before heading back into town.

A Few Useful Tips

The National Library is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm and Saturday from 9.30am to 5pm. Exhibition hours are slightly shorter, and the Library is normally closed on Sundays.

There is a dedicated visitor car park. You can also walk from Aberystwyth town centre, but be prepared for a fairly steep climb up Penglais Hill; the Library suggests allowing around 20 minutes.

Access is good. The main entrance has a ramp and automatic doors, lifts reach all public areas, wheelchairs can be borrowed and accessible toilets are available.

Caffi Pen Dinas is open during the week and on Saturdays, although Saturday service may be more limited.

The address is National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion SY23 3BU. General admission and the public exhibitions are free.