Finnish public libraries

Photo: Ilkka Vuorinen

Finland is among the top countries in the world in terms of literacy and education. The Finnish public library is one of the most advanced and admired in the world.

Libraries are strongly involved in the implementation of the key values of Finnish society: education and equality. Libraries have a traditionally strong role not only as one of the corner stones of Finnish democracy and education, but also in people’s daily lives. Libraries belong to everyone, as they are funded by tax revenue.

The continuity and quality of library services are protected by legislation. The first Public Libraries Act came into effect in 1928, with the latest version effected in 2017. 

 

More about the Finnish library system: In Finland Libraries are a free-of-charge basic service for everyone (pdf)

 

Information and facts about the Finnish library field: