Library at the Italian Cultural Institute
Throughout the centuries Italy and the Czech lands have had rich cultural contacts including strong artistic bonds ever since the 16th century when members of the Jesuit Order from Italy made up a minority of Prague’s foreigners. It is also easy to see Italian influence throughout the city regarding the architecture and design in Prague, even in more modern times. Two major buildings that serve as historical evidence for this tight relationship are the Italian Chapel in the spacious Klementinum Complex and the Italian Hospital in Mala Strana. These rich, cultural bonds continue to this day in Prague and the Czech Republic, especially through and with the help of the Italian Cultural Institute in Prague or the Istituto Italiano di Cultura. The Italian Institute, which is located in the atmospheric Mala Strana district of Prague, offers Italian language lessons, educational and cultural events plus entertainment options as well. The institute also offers a well-stocked library with over 18,000 volumes in Italian. The rich selection of books covering many genres is accessible for browsing at your home via the Internet thanks to the Institute’s online library. The library also features a select offering of Italian newspapers and magazines to be read onsite. The magazines cover a wide range of topics, from society to literature, fine arts, theater, architecture, design and more. The opening hours are the longest on Mondays and Tuesdays (9:30 to 18:00). On Wednesdays the library is open in the evening, from 16:00 to 19:30 and from Thursday to Sunday the library is closed. Access to the library as well as on-site book borrowing is free, however, if you wish to borrow books, you will need to become a registered member and pay the registration fee. An online program will help you to navigate all of the wonderful cultural events happening at the institute. Visit the Italian Cultural Institute of Prague and experience the rich, colorful Italian culture that is loved round the world.
Šporkova 14, Praha 1, +420 257 090 689, www.iicpraga.esteri.it/IIC_Praga
