Library

The Nobel Institute library has been open to the public ever since September 1905. From 2024, the library is no longer open to the public without an appointment. 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.

^{The Reading room in 1905. © The Norwegian Nobel Institute. Photo: Elis Nilsson}

Practical information

Access to the library is dependent on making an appointment with the library staff each time. Booking an appointment can be done either by sending an e-mail to [email protected], or by telephone 22 12 93 00. Appontments are given within the Nobel Institute's normal opening hours. 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.

The collection is available to all, and we lend out most of the material in the collection. You can order books to your local library through bibsok.no. 

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

You may make appointments at these times: 

Monday - Friday: 09.00 - 15.00 (15 September - 14 May)
Monday - Friday: 09.00 - 14.30 (15 May - 14 September.)
Saturdays and Sundays: Closed