We are Europe’s national libraries, working together to preserve the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Europe.
National libraries collect and preserve their nations‘ written, published, and recorded output, ensuring it remains accessible to all. As world-leading memory institutions, we believe Europe’s national libraries play a vital role in the intellectual, educational, cultural, social, and economic development of Europe, its individual countries, and local communities.
The Conference of European National Librarians (CENL) brings together these remarkable institutions to celebrate and promote the significance of national libraries throughout Europe. We create opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and professional development, fostering excellence and building mutual understanding.
CENL’s mission is to advance the cause of Europe’s national libraries by working better together as European national librarians and achieving more than we can do alone.
We are dedicated to building a strong, supportive community through continuous skills and knowledge exchange. Throughout the year, the CENL provides platforms for cooperation, dialogue, and learning. Once a year, all CENL members gather for a dedicated conference to explore and discuss shared priorities, projects, and initiatives.
CENL is a network of 46 national libraries from 45 European countries. Founded in 1987 as a foundation under Dutch law. Our members are the national librarians (directors) of the Council of Europe’s member states
Read news on our Member Libraries and CENL. Events are happening across our Member Libraries, discover what’s on.
CENL supports European national libraries to develop as memory institutions for the past and for the future. We enable knowledge exchange, network-building, cooperation and professional support through our Network Groups, Bursary programmes and Publications.
Members of CENL are the national librarians of the member states of the Council of Europe. Since 1987, CENL has worked to advance the cause of Europe’s national libraries, reinforcing our special role in preserving the continent’s cultural heritage and making it accessible to all.
The Executive Committee is appointed for a three year term. It is responsible for managing the foundation, and has been chaired by Frank Scholze, Director General of the German National Library since December 2021.
The Secretariat, which is always based at the institution of the Chair, is responsible for day-to-day management.
