The Nobel Institute library has been open to the public ever since September 1905. It is a specialized library containing some 204.000 volumes in the fields of international history and politics since 1800, international law, peace studies, and international economics. The library subscribes to about 100 current periodicals within the same topics. The collection also includes a special collection with literature and works of reference concerning Alfred Nobel and the Nobel Prizes. The collection includes several rare early publications.

Depositary library

The library is also a depository library for publications from a number of international organizations and institutions. Official documents from organizations such as the United Nations, League of Nations, the Council of Europe, and others, are included in the collection.

Lesesalen 1905
The Reading room in 1905. © The Norwegian Nobel Institute. Photo: Elis Nilsson

Practical information

The library is open to all, and we lend out most of the material in the collection. Users may use library cards from most Norwegian universities / colleges, or we can create a separate card for the library. You may read the Library loan policy here. There is a reading room with 18 seats for the visitors. Visitors may access a wireless network, and there is also a lunchroom in connection with the reading room.

Material newer then 1990 is searchable through Oria.
For material older than this you have to use the cards catalogue in the reading room.

Opening hours

Monday - Friday: 08.00 - 15.45 (15 September - 14 May)
Monday - Friday: 08.00 - 15.00 (15 May - 14 September.)
Saturdays and Sundays: Closed