The National Library of Israel

Yad Hanadiv is pleased to announce the publication of its special volume – The Library: An Open Book. Marking the completion of the National Library of Israel and a 30-year renewal process supported by Yad Hanadiv, this unique, multidisciplinary journey through books and libraries features contributions from leading authors and artists from Israel and around the globe.

Through short stories, essays, photography, paintings, and a futuristic graphic novella, The Library: An Open Book explores the evolving role of libraries in the digital age – as vibrant, spiritual, and enduring public spaces.

Contributors: Zoya Cherkassky, Rutu Modan, Eli Singalovski, Avishag Shaar-Yashuv, Avraham Hay, Hannah Rothschild, Etgar Keret, Dorit Rabinyan, Azar Nafisi, Susan Orlean, Haim Be’er, Lídia Jorge, Simon Schama, Simon Sebag Montefiore, Meir Shalev, Haviva Pedaya, Deyan Sudjic, Avriel Bar-Levav, Yehuda Gizbar Fenigstein, Oren Weinberg, Raquel Ukeles and Lior Zalmanson.

Chief Editor: Ido Bruno
Design: Noa Schwartz
Published 2025 by Hirmer in Hebrew, English, and Arabic editions

The new home of the National Library of Israel opened its doors to the public in October 2023. Designed by the world-renowned Swiss firm Herzog & de Meuron, in collaboration with the Israeli firm of Mann-Shinar, the iconic building spans approximately 46,000 sqm and features a main Reading Room that accommodates 600 readers, a robotic book retrieval system, an auditorium, space for cultural events and educational functions, and permanent and rotating exhibitions with rare and precious treasures from the Library’s collections.

The cornerstone for the new National Library of Israel building was laid on 5 April 2016, on a site allocated by the government, adjacent to the Knesset. Thus, the National Library joined two other landmark buildings that have become integral parts of Jerusalem's skyline with the support of Yad Hanadiv – the Knesset and the Supreme Court – showcasing the Foundation’s dedication to continuing the philanthropic legacy of the Rothschild family in Israel.