National Library of Togo (Bibliothèque nationale du Togo)

Overview

The National Library of Togo (French: Bibliothèque nationale du Togo) is the national library of the Republic of Togo, located in Lomé. It is affiliated with the Direction de la Bibliothèque et des Archives Nationales (DBAN). The library serves as a legal depository for Togolese publications and is the principal repository for pre-independence research, including diplomatic archives from the colonial period.

History and Founding

The National Library was founded in 1969. It serves researchers, students, and members of the public. Membership is required for borrowing materials. The library does not appear to maintain a dedicated official website.

Collections and Holdings

Holdings include books, government publications, journals, and materials related to Togolese history and culture. Pre-independence diplomatic archives are available at the National Library, as noted by the US Office of the Historian. Researchers seeking materials from the pre-independence period are directed to the National Library, while post-independence inquiries are referred to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Notable Materials Related to Journalism and Media

The library holds historical newspapers, periodicals, and press-related materials from the colonial and early independence periods.

Access and Usage

Opening hours are Monday through Saturday 07:30–18:30. Membership is required for borrowing; reference use is generally available to the public.