Istanbul is both a historic and a modern city, and it has a well-developed public library system that serves students and researchers from all over the world. According to the Turkish Statistical Institute (TurkStat), the number of public libraries in Turkey reached 44,829 libraries by the end of 2024, with a strong focus on Istanbul as a cultural and educational capital. Turkey’s library system has evolved from traditional Ottoman archives into modern, internet-connected institutions, offering diverse options that suit all students’ needs.
Choosing the right library is not just a practical decision—it is an investment in the quality of your educational experience. A quiet environment, reliable sources, and the availability of specialized resources directly affect your productivity and academic performance. Whether you are preparing for exams, conducting advanced research, or looking for books in Arabic, this comprehensive guide will help you find the ideal library.
| Key fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of libraries | More than 66 public libraries across Istanbul |
| Development timeline | From 1884 (the first Beyazıt Library) to 2022 (the modern Fatih Library) |
| Available options | Historic Ottoman libraries, specialized libraries, modern libraries |
| The key to study success | A quiet environment + reliable sources + the right location |
Top 5 Public Libraries: A Quick Comparison
There is no single answer to the question “Which library is the best?” Each library has unique strengths. Compare the top five options based on your needs:
| Library | Opening hours | Approx. capacity | Collection | Main focus | Best for... |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fatih Central Library | 24 hours daily | 400+ students | 50,000+ books | Multidisciplinary | 24-hour intensive studying and new students |
| Beyazıt National Library | 9:30 AM - 10 PM | 200+ readers | 80,000+ manuscripts | Ottoman & Arabic | Ottoman research and rare manuscripts |
| Süleymaniye Library | 8:30 AM - 11 PM | 150+ readers | 80,000+ manuscripts | Islamic studies | Islamic studies and Qur’anic manuscripts |
| Atatürk Library | 24 hours daily | 500+ readers | 500,000+ books | Multidisciplinary | The largest collection, a central location, and the Bosphorus |
| Başakşehir Library | 9 AM - 12 midnight | 250+ readers | 100,000+ books | Contemporary & arts | Modern libraries, art exhibitions, and the park |
Fatih Central Library: The Top Choice for Students
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan officially opened Fatih Central Library in April 2022, making it one of the newest and best-equipped libraries in Istanbul. It was designed specifically to meet students’ needs and offers an exceptional study atmosphere.
- Open 24 hours daily (but new visitor admission ends at 11 PM)
- Capacity for more than 400 students with an area of 4,000 square meters
- More than 50,000 books across multiple fields (literature, science, history, arts)
- A central location near the Emniyet-Fatih Metro Station
- Free Wi-Fi services and indoor cafés
Who benefits from it?
University students who need:
- Night studying and intensive exam preparation
- A modern, comfortable environment with full services
- Easy access by metro
Address: Akşemsettin, Adnan Menderes Blv. No:54, 34080 Fatih/İstanbul
Beyazıt National Library: History and Rare Manuscripts
Beyazıt National Library was founded in 1884 by Sultan Abdülhamid II, becoming the first public library in Turkey and the first library in the modern Islamic world. It is considered a historic cultural landmark, not merely a place to study, and it stands as a witness to Turkey’s cultural evolution.
- On June 24, 1884, Sultan Abdülhamid II converted the soup kitchen that was part of the Beyazıt Mosque into a public library.
- It was expanded in 1948 and 1953
- In 1961, its name officially changed to “Beyazıt State Library”
- It is considered the first library to offer audiobooks for the blind (6,000 audiobooks)
Exceptional collections
- More than 80,000 Ottoman manuscripts (rare archives)
- More than 50,000 Arabic documents from the Ottoman era
- Periodicals and old newspapers
- 6,000 audiobooks for the blind
Who benefits from it?
- Researchers looking for Ottoman and Arabic manuscripts
- Students of history and Ottoman studies
- Students who need rare resources not available elsewhere
- The blind and students with special needs
Opening hours: 9:30 AM - 10 PM daily
Address: Beyazıt, Turan Emeksiz Sk :6 34126, 34290 Fatih/İstanbul
Süleymaniye Library: The Jewel of Islamic Studies
Süleymaniye Library was built in 1557 as part of the famous Süleymaniye Complex designed by architect Sinan during the reign of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. This library is not just a library—it is considered the heart of Islamic heritage in Istanbul.
- The largest number of Islamic manuscripts in the world (according to official sources)
- More than 150 traditional art collections: Arabic calligraphy, gilded binding, miniatures
- A specialized section for Islamic studies and history with rare resources
- A historic location in the heart of the historic Fatih district
Special collections
- Rare Qur’anic manuscripts
- Arabic language books and Islamic studies
- Historical documents from the classical Islamic era
- High-level academic references
Who benefits from it?
- Students of Islamic and Arabic studies
- Researchers seeking Qur’anic and historical manuscripts
- Students of theology and Islamic law
- Researchers looking for specialized, reliable resources
Opening hours: 8:30 AM - 11 PM (except official holidays)
Location: Süleymaniye, Ayşe Kadın Hamamı Sk. No:27, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul
Atatürk Library: The Largest and Most Comprehensive
Atatürk Library was established in 1924 (in the early years of the Turkish Republic) and took its current name in 1981. It has one of the largest book collections in the Middle East.
- More than 500,000 books, manuscripts, and rare maps
- A central location in Beyoğlu with a view of the Bosphorus Strait
- Open 24 hours daily
- Capacity for more than 300 readers
- A rich digital library with e-lending services
- Library loan service is available (up to 5 books per month)
If you are looking for:
- The widest range of options (500,000 books means a higher chance of finding what you need)
- A central location close to universities and tourist areas
- 24-hour opening times with a professional environment
- A Bosphorus view while studying (an important psychological advantage!)
Opening hours: 24 hours daily
Location: Gümüşsuyu, Miralay Şefikbey Sk. No:6, 34437 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
Başakşehir Library: The Modern Option
President Erdoğan opened Başakşehir Library on March 14, 2019. It represents a model of the modern library that combines academic resources with an integrated cultural experience.
- A park spanning 360,000 square meters (a library in the middle of nature!)
- More than 100,000 books (print + digital + audiobooks + rare copies)
- Art exhibition halls for cultural events
- An indoor café for breaks between study sessions
- A prayer area inside the library
- Opening hours: 9 AM - 12 midnight daily
Who benefits from it?
- Students who enjoy studying surrounded by nature
- People interested in cultural events and art exhibitions
- Students who want to vary their study environment
- Families and study groups, as it includes spacious group areas
Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 12:00 midnight
Location: Kayabaşı, Temmuz Sk No: 2, 34480 Başakşehir/İstanbul
Specialized Libraries: Islamic and Arabic Studies
If you are an Arab student or a researcher in Islamic studies, you have excellent specialized options:
Library of the Center for Islamic Studies (ISAM)
Content: 289,000+ books specialized in Islamic studies
Monthly visitors: 15,000+ researchers and learners
Focus: Islam, history, philosophy, Arabic books
Users: Students of Islamic and Arabic studies and serious researchers
Arab Family Library
Content: 5,000+ books in Arabic
Focus: Arabic literature, children’s books, stories
Users: Arab families and students who want Arabic reading
Arab Network for Research and Publishing
Content: 10,000+ books
Focus: History, literature, social sciences (Arabic)
Users: Serious researchers and learners
Khutwa Library for Arabic Books
Content: 8,000+ Arabic books
Unique feature: Workshops, a cultural café, literary events
Established: 2016
Users: Students who want an integrated cultural experience
Basic Rules for Respecting the Library
- Be quiet: The library is a place to study, not a social café
- Respect silent zones: Some sections are dedicated only to deep focus
- Handle books carefully: Rare books need extra care to protect them from damage or deterioration
- Return books early: Do not occupy a desk without a real need
- Respect security and rules: You may be denied entry if you violate the rules
Golden Tip: Try Several Libraries
Do not choose just one library! Try visiting 3–5 different libraries:
- Fatih (for intensive, modern studying)
- Beyazıt (for a historic atmosphere and deep research)
- Süleymaniye (if you are interested in Islamic studies)
- ISAM (if you need Arabic books)
- Başakşehir (to study with nature)
Each library offers a unique experience, and you may discover that you need more than one depending on your field of study or your state of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Libraries in Istanbul
What is the best public library for students in Istanbul?
The answer varies depending on your needs:
- For 24-hour studying: Fatih Library or Nevmekan Sahil
- For Ottoman research: Beyazıt Library (80,000+ manuscripts)
- For Islamic studies: Süleymaniye Library or ISAM
- For the largest collection: Atatürk Library (500,000+ books)
Are public libraries in Istanbul open 24 hours?
Some of them are:
- ✓ Fatih Library: 24 hours (but new admissions until 11 PM)
- ✓ Atatürk Library: 24 hours
- ✓ Nevmekan Sahil Library: 24 hours
The rest have set hours (usually 9 AM - 11 PM).
Can foreign students enter public libraries?
Yes, public libraries are open to everyone without discrimination. You may need your passport, residence permit, or student ID card. Some libraries may request a free membership card for borrowing services.
Where can I find books in Arabic in Istanbul?
You have several options:
- Library of the Center for Islamic Studies (ISAM): 289,000+ Arabic books
- Arab Family Library: specialized in Arabic books
- Arab Network for Research and Publishing: 10,000+ books
- Khutwa Library for Arabic Books: with cultural events
Is there an entry fee for public libraries?
Most public libraries are completely free for entry and reading, but they may request a free membership card for borrowing.
Can I borrow books from public libraries?
Yes, most libraries provide borrowing services, and some require a membership card. Ask the staff for details.
How many public libraries are there in Istanbul?
According to the Turkish Statistical Institute (TurkStat), there are more than 66 public libraries across Istanbul.