Puerto Rico National Library facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Carcel de Puerta de Tierra
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Biblioteca Nacional de Puerto Rico in San Juan, 2017
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 Location in Puerto Rico
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| Location | Ponce de León Avenue, Stop 8 San Juan Antiguo, San Juan, Puerto Rico |
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| Built | 1887 |
| Architect | Domingo Sermero |
| Architectural style | Spanish Neoclassical |
| NRHP reference No. | 76002253 |
| Added to NRHP | August 11, 1976 |
The Puerto Rico National Library (also known as Biblioteca Nacional de Puerto Rico in Spanish) is the main library for the island of Puerto Rico. It is a very important place where books, documents, and special collections are kept safe for everyone to learn from. It works closely with the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture.
Contents
Discovering the Puerto Rico National Library
A Look at Its History
The library first started in 1967. It was called the Biblioteca General de Puerto Rico back then. This was decided by a special law from the Puerto Rico Legislature.
The library officially opened its doors on April 11, 1973. Later, in 2003, its name was changed to the Biblioteca Nacional de Puerto Rico. This new name was given by another law passed in August of that year.
The Library's Special Home
The National Library is located in a beautiful old building. This building was constructed in 1887. It used to be a factory for Bacardi Rum. Today, the library shares this historic building with the General Archives of Puerto Rico.
The building is found in Old San Juan. It is right across from the Luis Muñoz Rivera Park. Inside, the library is fully air-conditioned. It also offers free Internet access for visitors.
The library and archives share a large amphitheater. This space can seat 119 people. It is used for events and presentations.
Amazing Collections to Explore
The Puerto Rico National Library has many unique collections. These are special groups of books and documents. They are very valuable for learning about history and culture.
One collection is called the Dominican Collection. It has religious books with leather covers. These books date back to the 16th to 19th centuries. That means some are over 400 years old!
Another important collection is about Eugenio María de Hostos. He was a famous Puerto Rican writer and educator. This collection includes 1,300 handwritten papers. These papers have been digitized, meaning they are available online.
The library also holds the private collection of Concha Meléndez. She was a well-known literary critic. She also taught at the University of Puerto Rico. Her collection offers great insights into literature.
A Historic Landmark
The building where the library is located is very old and important. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. This means it is recognized as a significant historical site. At that time, it was known by its older name, Carcel de Puerta de Tierra.
