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The Ultimate Guide to the National Library Singapore: What to Enjoy Beyond Books
- History of the National Library Singapore
- Things to Know
- How to Get There
- What to See and Do
- Admire the dual-tower architecture from above
- Spot the historic red bricks
- Dive into the Lee Kong Chian reference library
- Visit the Central Public Library
- Step into the Children’s Biodiversity Library
- Catch a show at the Drama Centre
- Use the study pods or book a meeting room
- Explore digital archives at the eResources Hub
- Browse ongoing exhibitions at The Pod
- Volunteer or join a workshop
The National Library Singapore isn’t just for bookworms; it’s where history, research, and skyline views come together under one very tall roof. Students, tourists, and serial Google users all find a reason to stay there longer than planned.
Smack in the Civic District, it’s my go-to for everything from old newspaper deep dives to catching a play. If you think libraries are boring, this guide will prove you wrong.
History of the National Library Singapore
The National Library’s story started way back in the 1820s as a humble installation for the early British colony. It’s since grown from dusty shelves to digital archives and 16 floors of brain fuel.
The big leap came in 2005 with this Victoria Street flagship and the birth of the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library. From colonial roots to cloud-based resources, it’s come a long way, and it’s still evolving.
Things to Know
Address: 100 Victoria St, #B1-01 National Library / Lee Kong Chian Reference Library
Contact: [email protected]
Hours: Daily, 10 AM–9 PM
Admission: Free entry to explore the building, reading areas, exhibitions, and use most on-site services. A library card or NRIC is required to access reference materials, use study pods, or log in to premium digital resources on-site.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible entrances and lifts, toilets on multiple levels, spacious aisles and seating areas, tactile indicators, Braille signage, assistive listening devices, and staff assistance
Amenities: Accessible toilets, baby care rooms, water coolers/refill stations, free WiFi, charging points, cafe and vending machines, e-kiosks, printing, scanning, and photocopy services
Pet-friendly? No
Rules and restrictions:
- Remain silent in reading zones
- No smoking, eating, or drinking
- Maintain decorum
- Theft, mutilation, or damage to library materials will be penalised
- Membership and borrowing privileges are non-transferable
- Items can be returned via 24-hour service bins
- Visits may be capped at around 3 hours during peak time
How to Get There
By MRT: Take the MRT to Bugis Station (DT14-EW12). From Exit B, it’s just a 5-minute walk along Victoria Street.
By bus: The closest bus stop is “National Library” (Bus Stop 07568) along Victoria Street, right outside the building. Buses like 7, 32, 51, 63, 80, 175, 197, and 851 stop there. Just hop off and you’re practically at the front door.
By car or taxi/drop-off: Use the Middle Road entrance for direct access to the basement car park or drop-off point near the lobby. Just key in 100 Victoria Street into your GPS.
What to See and Do
Admire the dual-tower architecture from above
Location: Skybridges are on Levels 5, 10, and 16
The National Library’s 16-storey design is split into two blocks: one for books, and one for brains (AKA offices). Skybridges connect them, giving you a peek into both worlds.
I like taking the lift up and walking across for a quick architecture appreciation session. It’s crossing ideas with structure (literally!).
Pro-tip: For the best cityscape view and photo op, head to the Level 16 Skybridge to get the panoramic stretch that most casual visitors miss.
Spot the historic red bricks
Media from kowfong
Location: Near the ground-level entrance
Yup, those old bricks aren’t just for show. They’re from the original Stamford Library, and many have paid homage to them via art and even toy brick forms.
I consider it a quiet “hello” from the past, hiding in plain sight. You’ll find them embedded in the external wall in the plaza, so take a closer look.
Pro-tip: You’re allowed to touch the bricks carefully. It’s the closest thing we’ve got to a time machine, after all.
Dive into the Lee Kong Chian reference library
Media from iggyeggieggyagnya
Location: Levels 7 to 11
It’s at the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library where deep research dives happen. Think rare maps, microfilms, and dusty tomes you can’t borrow, but browse through as much as you’d like.
I like calling it my research paradise minus the borrowing-returning drama. But once inside it, I always find myself in the rabbit hole of Singapore’s intellectual past, which is quietly addictive.
Pro-tip: You’ll need to register at the counter on Level 7 before you can access more of the sensitive stuff.
Visit the Central Public Library
Media from nlbsingapore
Location: Basement 1
If you want to bring home books, you’ll need to go to the Central Public Library. It’s a casual, colourful place filled with bite-sized reads and comfy nooks.
The new layout makes browsing less maze-like, unlike before. As a bonus, the curated displays mean you’ll probably leave with something you didn’t plan to borrow.
Pro-tip: Look out for the themed book display near the entrance. They rotate regularly and are a goldmine for unexpected weekend reads.
Step into the Children’s Biodiversity Library
Media from singaporeoceanarium
Location: Basement 1, Central Public Library
The Children’s Biodiversity Library by SEA Aquarium is not just a kids’ section, but a full-on jungle-meets-ocean adventure. Expect giant sea creatures overhead and books hiding in log-shaped shelves.
Even adults like me linger longer than we mean to. Just follow the sound of giggles and the glow of interactive screens.
Pro-tip: Visit on weekday mornings when it’s quieter, and your kids can enjoy the interactive zones without crowds.
Catch a show at the Drama Centre
Media from missy.angeline
Location: Levels 3 to 5
The Drama Centre is where the library swaps books for spotlights. From indie plays to dance showcases, it’s legit theatre right in the middle of your reading trip.
The centre shares a lift with the National Library but exists in its world. I like checking the show schedule before visiting the library, as I always end up watching a gem I didn’t plan for.
Pro-tip: Look out for free or pay-as-you-wish shows by local art groups during festivals like Singapore Arts Week or Silver Arts.
Use the study pods or book a meeting room
Media from nlbsingapore
Location: Levels 8 and 9, Lee Kong Chian Reference Library
When the nearest Starbucks is packed and my WiFi is wonky, the National Library’s study pods come in handy. They’re cool, quiet, and don’t come with a minimum spend (or blended coffee sugar rushes).
Need to brainstorm or rehearse a pitch? Book a meeting room, as it’s cheaper than a coworking space and comes with air-conditioning. If you prefer it al fresco, there are open-air spots at the Level 5 courtyard garden, too.
Pro-tip: Book your slot online via the NL rooms booking portal in advance, especially during exam season.
Explore digital archives at the eResources Hub
Media from nationalarchivessg
Location: Level 11, Lee Kong Chian Reference Library
The eResources Hub is where the past lives in pixels. Expect old newspapers, microfilms, and rare texts just a few clicks away. It’s ideal for those who like Googling for fun but also want deeper answers.
You’ll find onsite terminals, but most of the stuff is online via the National Library’s portal, too. Just log in, search, and next thing you know, it’s 1950 in your browser.
Pro-tip: Bring your NRIC or library account login. Some premium databases like Factiva need authentication, even on-site.
Browse ongoing exhibitions at The Pod
Media from reviveramesh
Location: Level 16, ground-floor atrium
There’s always something low-key cool showing at the ground-floor atrium or upper-level exhibition zones of the National Library. It’s usually about Singapore’s history, culture or quirks, but it always feels like a bonus field trip.
If the Pod on Level 16 is open, I highly recommend going. It’s a rare chance to see the skyline from a spot most people don’t even know exists.
Pro-tip: The Pod isn’t always open to the public, so follow the official Instagram account for open houses or free events with a scenic view.
Volunteer or join a workshop
Media from nationallibrarysg
Location: Level 1 (Programme Zone); Level 16 (The Pod)
There’s always a workshop brewing at the National Library, whether it’s writing, coding, storytelling, or art-related. Some are free, some need registration, but all come with brain gains.
If you’re feeling helpful, sign up to volunteer or donate. The place runs on more than good WiFi and quiet corners, but on generous people, too.
Pro-tip: Volunteers get first dibs on event invites and behind-the-scenes perks. If you’re a regular, it’s a good way to give back and receive!
