Is library membership free?

Yes. Registration is free with an ID and proof of address; some libraries accept a passport and PESEL. You borrow books and use study spaces at no cost.

Do libraries have English books?

Yes. Major city libraries and the National Library hold English-language fiction and non-fiction; large branches also have other languages.

Public Libraries in Poland

Free membership, books in foreign languages, study spaces, and events at Polish public libraries.

Updated 2026-01-20 · 1 min read

Why use libraries

Free book borrowing and e-books/audiobooks.
Free Wi-Fi, computers, and quiet study spaces.
Free events: language clubs, lectures, kids' sessions.
A warm, dry place in winter.

Major libraries

Biblioteka Publiczna m.st. Warszawy (Warsaw Public Library) — central branch at Koszykowa, plus district branches.
Biblioteka Jagiellońska (Kraków) — historic university library.
Wojewódzka Biblioteka Publiczna in each voivodeship capital.
National Library (Biblioteka Narodowa) in Warsaw.

Foreign-language collections

English, German, French, Ukrainian, Russian books in major branches.
E-books and audiobooks via Legimi, Empik Go, tolino — often free with a library card.

Registration

Bring ID/passport + proof of address (some accept zameldowanie).
Free; receive a library card.

Events

Conversation clubs (Polish/English).
Children's story time.
Author talks and exhibitions.

Tips

Use libraries for free internet when you arrive.
Download the Legimi app and link your library card for free e-books.

FAQ

Is library membership free?: Yes. Registration is free with an ID and proof of address; some libraries accept a passport and PESEL. You borrow books and use study spaces at no cost.
Do libraries have English books?: Yes. Major city libraries and the National Library hold English-language fiction and non-fiction; large branches also have other languages.