The National Teachers’ Library is one of the most important in Argentina and in the City of Buenos Aires. Together with the Mariano Moreno National Library, they constitute two centres of knowledge, culture and education with free public access.
The Sarmiento Palace houses not only the National Teachers’ Library, but also the National Secretariat of Education. With your visit you will be able to tour the fantastic rooms of the Library and its wonderful collection of books, some of which are true literary gems.
National Library of Teachers (Buenos Aires): Key Information For Your Visit
What is the National Library of Teachers?
The National Library of Teachers (Biblioteca Nacional de Maestros) is housed in the historic Palacio Sarmiento, a building declared a National Historic Monument that also accommodates the National Ministry of Education. Constructed between 1886 and 1888 by architect Carlos Altgelt, the Palacio Sarmiento blends French and Germanic elements in an eclectic design.
Originally, its central three floors were designated for the museum and school library, while the left wing was dedicated to a school. The building, featuring four stories and an iron and masonry structure, sits in a historically significant area surrounded by landmarks like the Jardín de los Maestros plaza and the Petronila Rodríguez square.
Collection
The library’s collection boasts over 220,000 items, including books, magazines, videos, and documents. In the 1990s, it underwent a significant renovation, modernizing its infrastructure to include remote consultation services, a digital library, advanced management software, and the expansion of its reach across Argentina.
Initially focused on managing official publications, the library’s purpose evolved over time, especially after the 1880s, when it became accessible to the public, particularly teachers. It now offers an extensive catalog of literature in various genres.
Rooms and sectors
The National Library of Teachers is renowned for its reading rooms, large shelves, and stunning architecture that invites visitors not only to explore and photograph but also to read or study in a peaceful environment.
The library features several dedicated spaces, including a general Reading Room with 70,000 books, the American Room for researchers, and the Treasure Room housing historic works.
Where is the National Library of Teachers?
The National Library of Teachers is located at Pasaje Pizzurno 953, between Marcelo Torcuato de Alvear and Paraguay streets in the Recoleta neighborhood of Buenos Aires. It stands across from the Jardín de los Maestros plaza, near Rodríguez Peña street.
The Palacio Sarmiento, home to the library, also serves as the headquarters for the National Ministry of Education. Nearby landmarks include the Plaza Rodríguez Peña and Parroquia Nuestra Señora del Carmen, one of Buenos Aires’ most important churches, just a block away.
Recoleta is a well-connected area, with major avenues like Callao, Córdoba, and Santa Fe nearby. The library’s central location makes it an ideal stop on a tour of Recoleta, San Nicolás, and Retiro neighborhoods. Attractions like the Ateneo Grand Splendid, Buenos Aires’ most famous bookstore, and the Museum of Water and Sanitation History on Córdoba Avenue are also within walking distance.
How to Get to the National Library of Teachers?
Reaching the National Library of Teachers is straightforward due to its central location and integration into the city’s public transport network. The most direct and quickest option is the subway. The Callao station on Line D is just two blocks away, with additional access via Line C to the east and Line B along Corrientes Avenue to the south.
For those preferring buses, numerous lines serve the area, including 10, 12, 17, 29, 37, 59, 99, 100, 108, 109, 111, 124, 132, and 151.
Why Visit the National Library of Teachers?
Admire the Exterior and Interior Architecture
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the stunning architecture of this impressive building, which dates back over 100 years to Buenos Aires’ Belle Époque. The Palacio Sarmiento dazzles with its eclectic style, influenced by French and German architecture.
Explore the Library and Its Rooms
To enter the library, you’ll need to present identification and receive an access card, which helps ensure that books aren’t taken without authorization. Once inside, you’re free to read, browse the shelves, and even sit at a table to read a book or work on your laptop.
Read, Study, or Work
Why not use your visit as an opportunity to read, study, or work in a serene, quiet, and harmonious setting? The National Library of Teachers offers an ideal environment for concentration, with free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, desks, and well-lit areas. Visitors are expected to maintain silence, making it a perfect place for productive activities.
(Featured Image Source: Luis O. Boettner/flickr.com)
