The Bermuda National Library provides books, information and services for education, research and enjoyment. We offer lending and reference collections, computer and internet access, and programmes for children, young people and adults.
The Bermuda National Library was founded in 1839 through the encouragement of Governor William Reid and was located in what is now the Cabinet Building. This Library started out with 276 volumes – most of which were donations from the Governor, his private Secretary, Lieutenant Papillon, R.A., and the Hamilton Club. The first Librarian was Mr. John Stephens and the Library was open to the public from 11 am to 12 pm and 1 pm to 2 pm.
The Dewey Decimal Classification system was introduced at the Library by Ms Katherine G. Seon in 1912 and has remained the method of classification and organisation of the Library's collections to this day.
In 1917, the Bermuda Library moved to its current Par-la-Ville location; at the time, the Library's collection of books totaled approximately 40,000. Originally, the upper floor housed the museum collection which was then placed in one room on the ground floor, allowing the Library to move in to that space.
In 1954, the Colonial Legislature voted to have a new wing added to the old Perot home at "Par-la-Ville". On 29th July, 1957 the new building was formally opened by His Excellency, Governor Major-General Sir John Woodall K.B.E., C.B., M.C.
Renovations took place in 1997 with the installation of the elevator and the creation of the new staircase. The former entrance to the Circulation Department, the cedar staircase leading from the Bermuda Historical Society Museum, was turned over to the Museum and has become a focal point for several of their displays.
The Bermuda National Library's circulating and reference collections are now located in the 'new wing' of "Par-la-Ville" with the staff processing area located in the space formerly occupied by the Library before 1957. The collections have grown to an approximate 115,300 volumes.
The Bermuda Youth Library has been at its present location at 74 Church Street, Hamilton since July 1982. As of January 2026, the library’s total holdings were approximately 104,600 items and membership to the library is over 15,000 persons.
Apply online for an Adult library card from the Bermuda National Library. You must be 17 or older and a resident of Bermuda. Once library staff process your application, your physical card will be mailed to you. Children 16 and under must apply in person with a parent or guardian’s signature.
Everything you need to know about the Bermuda National Library’s Adult Services, including free membership, borrowing, fines, computers and Wi-Fi, and our collections.
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Historic newspapers and magazines, preserved and searchable online.
The online catalogue lists books, serials, and other materials at the Main and Youth Libraries.