What These Libraries Are
Taipei’s Parliamentary Library is part of the Legislative Yuan complex in Zhongzheng District. It supports legislators and researchers while giving the public access to legislative resources and educational opportunities. Its role and public services reflect Taiwan’s democratic system and political history (IFLA, 2019; Wikipedia, 2024 Taiwanese legislative election; Foreign Policy, 2025).
The National Taiwan Library (國立臺灣圖書館) is in Zhonghe District, New Taipei City. It is recognized for its extensive collections, conservation work, and accessibility features (Wikipedia: National Taiwan Library).
History and Institutional Role
Founded after the Republic of China government relocated to Taiwan in 1949, the Parliamentary Library developed alongside Taiwan’s democratization. Initially established to support lawmakers with legislative research and archival services, it grew from a resource limited to officials during martial law into a public institution. This transition reflects Taiwan’s political evolution from authoritarianism to a multiparty democracy (IFLA, 2019).
The library organizes session records, bills, and comparative studies; provides briefings, legal database access, and tailored support for lawmakers; and facilitates public access to legislative documents and educational initiatives. It supports impartial research for all parties and informed public debate, including during significant political events such as the 2024 legislative election and recent constitutional developments (Foreign Policy, 2025).
Through public exhibitions, educational programs, and community forums, the Parliamentary Library promotes civic literacy and dialogue between citizens and lawmakers. Its combination of traditional Taiwanese motifs and modern elements represents transparency, openness, and the free exchange of information (Taipei Times; Designing Libraries).
What to See and Collections
Parliamentary Library
The Parliamentary Library’s holdings include legislative bills, session transcripts, committee reports, voting records, statutes, regulations, case law, policy analyses, encyclopedias, statistical yearbooks, rare books, and historical manuscripts. Online catalogs, e-resources, legal databases, and open data initiatives are also available, with many resources accessible remotely (IFLA Guidelines for Parliamentary Libraries).
The building incorporates sustainable materials, solar panels, green roofs, natural lighting, local and recyclable materials, and rainwater harvesting systems. Its flexible layout includes quiet study areas, collaborative zones, and landscaped outdoor reading spaces. The design is intended to harmonize with Taipei’s urban landscape, respect historical landmarks, and provide access to nearby cultural sites (Taipei Times; Designing Libraries; Taipei Travel).
National Taiwan Library
The National Taiwan Library holds over 210,000 documents from the Japanese colonial era, rare books, and 12,000 Braille volumes. Visitors can observe book restoration at the “Book Hospital.” Guided tours and exhibitions cover Taiwan’s history and literature (library’s events page).
Practical Visiting Information
Parliamentary Library
- Location Legislative Yuan complex, Zhongzheng District, Taipei.
- Getting there The complex is accessible by Taipei MRT and city buses, with clear signage from nearby stations (Taiwan Obsessed).
- Hours Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed on weekends and national holidays. Check the official website to verify hours.
- Admission Free for all visitors. ID and security screening are required.
- Tours and events Guided tours are available for groups and international visitors; advance booking is recommended. Workshops, educational programs, and exhibitions on legislative history and democracy are also held.
- Facilities and accessibility Reading rooms, Wi-Fi, computer terminals, lockers, accessible restrooms, ramps, elevators, and assistive technologies are available. The facility is accessible to visitors with disabilities.
National Taiwan Library
- Address No. 85, Section 3, Zhongshan Road, Zhonghe District, New Taipei City.
- Getting there Take the Taipei MRT Zhonghe Line to Yongan Market Station, then continue by a short bus or taxi ride. EasyCard covers both MRT and buses (Taipei Public Library).
- Hours Tuesday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–9:00 PM; Sunday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed Mondays and holidays.
- Admission Free. Some special collections may require registration (official website).
- Facilities and services Free Wi-Fi, computer stations, accessible facilities for visually impaired visitors, lockers, a café, vending machines, and restrooms.
Tips and Etiquette
At the Parliamentary Library, maintain a quiet environment; eating and drinking are allowed only in designated areas. Photography is permitted in most public spaces but may be restricted in special collections.
At the National Taiwan Library, silence is expected, and photography is allowed in public spaces only. Its atmosphere combines traditional and modern design.
For the National Taiwan Library, October to April offers comfortable weather; avoid typhoon season (NaviTaiwan Travel Tips). From the airport, travel by Taoyuan MRT to Taipei Main Station, then take the MRT Zhonghe Line; the journey takes about 60–75 minutes (Bon Traveler: Taipei Guide).
For current Parliamentary Library hours, tours, and events, consult the Legislative Yuan’s official website. National Taiwan Library information is available on its official website. Digital guides are available from the Audiala app.
Nearby Places
Near the Parliamentary Library, visitors can explore the Presidential Office Building, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, and the National Taiwan Museum (Taipei Travel Visitor Information).
Nearby attractions listed for the National Taiwan Library include 228 Peace Memorial Park, the National Taiwan Museum, and Dihua Street (Wanderlog: Historic Buildings).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the Parliamentary Library’s visiting hours?
Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; closed on weekends and public holidays.
Is there an entry fee?
No. Admission is free.
Are guided tours offered?
Yes. Advance booking is recommended.
Is the Parliamentary Library accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes. The facility is accessible.
Can I take photographs at the Parliamentary Library?
Photography is allowed in most areas except restricted sections.
