National Library of Finland, Helsinki

The National Library is Finland's oldest and largest scholarly library, and this is where our printed national heritage is preserved. There are also other nations' literary treasures: for instance the Slavonic department boasts approximately 450 000 volumes. Quiet nooks and reading rooms are provided for researchers, and there is even a little cafe in the premises, so you can stay the whole day if you like. The very air here is inspiring, filled with the sweet scent of old books and history. This place never ceases to awe me, and I always feel very privileged to be here.