The entire library collection is registered in Worldcat. You can find our books and journals directly using the search field below.
A unique library in Wereldmuseum
The library collection of Wereldmuseum has been built up since the early 19th century and now consists of some 80,000 titles in the field of ethnology, ethnography and anthropology and is therefore an important specialist library for the study of these themes in the Netherlands. From this tradition, the library also collects books on fashion, photography and art and design worldwide. Come and read about subjects such as celebrations and rituals, travel reports, ceramics, batik and saris, tattoos and much more. Everyone is welcome to consult the library.
Please note: The library is closed annually on 3 October due to Leidens Ontzet.
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Collection
Wereldmuseum has locations in Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Leiden; the collections of these museums' libraries have been brought together in Leiden. Due to the rich history of these museums, Wereldmuseum has a unique library collection on ethnography, anthropology, visual arts and material culture worldwide, which has been built up since the early 19th century. The collection consists of approximately 80,000 book and magazine titles and originates from the Museum Volkenkunde, the Tropenmuseum Amsterdam and Wereldmuseum Rotterdam. Over the years, the collection has grown with, among other things, books from the Aboriginal Art Museum, which closed in 2017, and donations from former curators.
The library also offers access to the museum archive, where research can be done into the history of the various collections and institutes.
Visiting the library
We would like to invite you to consult the library. There are facilities for making copies and scans. The books are not loaned out.
If you know which books you want to consult before your visit, you can let us know via bibliotheek@wereldmuseum.nl. The library staff will then prepare the books for you. Be sure to note the signature if you want to request books.
Please note: The library is closed annually on 3 October due to Leidens Ontzet.
Visiting address
Wereldmuseum Leiden
Boerhaavegebouw (directly to the left at the Steenstraat entry).
Steenstraat 1A
2312 BS Leiden
Phone: 088 0042 907
E-mail: bibliotheek@wereldmuseum.nl
Questions?
For all your questions about the library, please contact:
Lucas Faessen (librarian), Marieke van Bragt (archivist/librarian) or Rinus Boekkooi (library assistant)
Phone: 088 0042 907
E-mail: bibliotheek@wereldmuseum.nl