It’s story time at Innsbruck’s top libraries

Sick of screen time? Then it’s time to get yourself down to the library and delve into some books! Innsbruck is home to some amazing libraries, where you can take out books, discover new movies you won’t find on Netflix, or simply read today’s paper.

But which library should you choose? Here is our rundown of the top 4 libraries in Innsbruck.

The Universitätsbibliothek, or University Library, is one of the city’s biggest. Located at the main university campus overlooking the river, it is home to just about any kind of academic text you can imagine. If you want to learn about the latest developments in law, psychology or quantum physics, this is the place to come.

And no visit to the Universitätsbibliothek is complete without checking out the historic reading room. Studying in this elegant part of the library might be just the inspiration you need for your next academic breakthrough.

Universitäts- und Landesbibliothek Tirol
Innrain 50, 6020 Innsbruck

Tel. +43 512 507-2410

This is probably Innsbruck’s most unlikely library, but also one of its best. The Arbeiterkammer, or AK, is the Austrian Chamber of Workers. They give advice to employed people about worker’s rights, contracts, parental leave and other such issues. However, the AK in Innsbruck also has a small but well-stocked library which is open to AK members and their families.

While you’ll find books on lots of different topics, one of the highlights of the AK library are its language learning resources. From phrasebooks and audiobooks to CD-Roms (remember them?), you can put your foreign language skills to the test.

AK Bibliothek Tirol
Maximilianstrasse 7, 6020 Innsbruck

Tel. +43/(0)512/5340-1548/1549

You probably know the Haus der Musik for its amazing concerts and theatre productions. But did you know that it has a library too? On the top floor, you will find Innsbruck’s biggest collection of sheet music, which can all be loaned for free. There are also plenty of other musical resources, such as CDs of live performances and musical magazines.

What’s more, from its elevated location, the Bibliothek Haus der Musik offers some amazing views over the city. What could be better than browsing Beethoven’s finest works against a backdrop of the stunning Nordkette mountains?

Bibliothek Haus der Musik
Universitätsstraße 1 , 6020 Innsbruck

Tel. +43 512 507 25752

Innsbruck’s Stadtbibliothek, or City Library, is not just the city’s newest library, but its best one, too. Opened in 2018, it has quickly become popular with both young and old, earning the nickname “Innsbruck’s biggest living room”. The Stadtbibliothek has a huge collection of books, DVDs, graphic novels and CDs, as well as an events space, art exhibitions and plenty of workspaces (with free Wifi).

The children’s library on the first floor is a particularly great place to spend a rainy afternoon. Filled with books for both tots and big kids, as well as comfy seats to lounge and climb on, the Stadtbibliothek is guaranteed to keep your little ones busy for hours.

Stadtbibliothek Innsbruck
Amraserstrasse 2 , 6020 Innsbruck

Tel. +43 512 5360 5700

Please note: due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Innsbruck’s libraries may have adjusted opening times as well as measures such as wearing masks and keeping distance. While you may be able to take out books, it may not be possible to use other facilities, including workspaces and reading rooms. Please check the individual library websites for the latest advice.