The Royal Library of Belgium, or KBR, is a national library on Mont des Arts in central Brussels, within walking distance of the Royal Palace. Its KBR Museum explores books and writing through interactive tablets that explain how manuscripts were made. The collection includes rare medieval manuscripts linked to the Dukes of Burgundy, including the Librije. You can also use the spacious hall’s free Wi-Fi, explore book-focused exhibitions with children, or take a break in the rooftop garden overlooking Mont des Arts.
The KBR Museum and its manuscripts
The KBR Museum focuses on books and writing. Interactive tablets explain how manuscripts were made, with information suited to different ages and levels. The displays include rare medieval manuscripts from the collection of the Dukes of Burgundy, among them the Librije.
The museum is in the same building as the library, but a museum visit is distinct from using the reading rooms. Check the current access procedure before you arrive, especially if you plan to study as well as visit the displays.
Using the library
KBR is a large, modern study space in central Brussels. Its spacious hall has free Wi-Fi, and the library holds collections for children and young adults. Families can also look for book-focused exhibitions and storytelling sessions.
Study access involves procedures that differ from a museum visit, and only certain rooms may be available for working. Check which reading rooms are open and what access requires before setting aside a full study day. Bags may be restricted in study areas, while lockers can be limited, so travelling light can make arrival easier.
The rooftop garden on Mont des Arts
A rooftop garden gives visitors a place to sit outdoors above Mont des Arts. It is used as a lunchtime spot and has views over the surrounding area. On a sunny day, it makes a quiet break from the library or nearby streets.
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What can you see at the KBR Museum?
The museum explores books and writing, with interactive tablets explaining how manuscripts were made. Its collection includes rare medieval manuscripts linked to the Dukes of Burgundy, including the Librije.
Can you study at the Royal Library of Belgium?
Yes, but study access is separate from a museum visit and involves its own procedures. Only certain reading rooms may be available, so check current access rules and room availability before you go.
Is there a rooftop garden at the Royal Library of Belgium?
Yes. The rooftop garden on Mont des Arts is a place to take a break outdoors and enjoy views over the area.
Is the Royal Library of Belgium suitable for children?
The library has collections for children and young adults, along with book-focused exhibitions and storytelling sessions. The museum’s interactive tablets explain manuscript-making for different ages and levels.
