Latvian Research Libraries from the 1980s to the Present

Abstract This article explores the evolution of Latvia’s leading research libraries from the final decade of Soviet occupation to the present day. After the Soviet time, libraries have undergone great changes and have become modern, multifunctional cultural, educational, and research centres responding to the needs and expectations of society. The article focuses on the National Library of Latvia, centre of the Latvian library system since its foundation in 1919. The State Unified Library Information System has modernised the entire network of publicly accessible libraries. Twelve major libraries have been involved in developing the electronic catalogue. Work on the Latvian National Digital Library has been ongoing since 2006. The Latvian Government’s decision in 2002 to build a new National Library (opened in 2014) has also spurred on the renovation or construction of many other libraries in Latvia.