Library of Parliament

Welcome to the Library of Parliament. Our approach begins not outside, but deep within the corridors of power, at the terminus of the Centre Block's majestic Hall of Honour. …

Before we cross the threshold into the main reading room, we must pause to examine the very reason this library still exists: the famous fire doors. At first glance, these heavy, imposing doors appear to be constructed of dark,…

As you step through the iron doors and enter the main reading room, the visual impact is universally described as breathtaking. Your gaze is immediately drawn upward, pulled by the sheer verticality of the soaring iron dome. …

Let us turn our analytical focus to the intricate detailing that adorns the walls and galleries. The Library is universally renowned for its extraordinary woodwork. …

A critical aspect of historic architecture is understanding how a space was illuminated before the advent of high-wattage electric lighting. When the Library of Parliament opened in 1876, it was illuminated entirely by gaslight. …

We now descend into the highly secure, climate-controlled environment of the Rare Book Room, located in the lower levels of the Library. The mandate of the Library is to collect materials relevant to the functioning of…

Our final stop within the collection focuses on a true masterpiece of historical bibliography and natural science: an original edition of John James Audubon’s 'Birds of America'. Acquired in 1857, this work is considered the Holy…

As we conclude our tour of the Library of Parliament and prepare to transition back through the iron doors into the modern political arena, let us reflect on the enduring purpose of this magnificent space. We have walked through…