Definition: Libraries

Category: Culture

Irrespective of its title, any organised collection of printed books and periodicals or of any other graphic or audio-visual materials, and the services of a staff to provide and facilitate the use of such materials as are required to meet the informational, research, educational or recreational needs of its users. Each of the libraries covered by the definition should be classified in the following categories and sub-categories:
 - National libraries
 - Libraries of institutions of higher education
 - Other major non-specialized libraries
 - Specialised libraries
 - Public (or popular) libraries