Using libraries

Libraries offer not just books but study space, classes and multilingual material — free.

What you can use

• Borrowing books — free once you have a card.
• Reading and study rooms — quiet space to work.
• Multilingual material — foreign-language books and Korean study texts.
• Free classes — Korean, computing, cultural programmes.
• Children's rooms — picture books and reading programmes.
• Computers, internet and printers — available at many branches.

Getting a card

1. Find your nearest public library (district or city library, or a small local one).
2. Take your alien registration card.
3. Fill in the form and the card is issued on the spot, usually free.
4. Check how many books and for how long you may borrow.
5. Some libraries also offer a mobile card or app.

Worth knowing

• Late returns can suspend borrowing for a period.
• Damaged or lost books must be paid for.
• There are closing days, typically Mondays or public holidays.
• Inter-library loan lets you collect another library's book at a nearer branch.
• Many libraries provide e-books and audiobooks.

Where to go

• Your nearest public library (search on your district or city website)
• National Library of Korea www.nl.go.kr
• Community centre (small local libraries)
• Family centre (multicultural material and programmes)
• 1345 interpretation support

Questions people ask

Can I use it without Korean? Yes. Many libraries have foreign-language sections and good Korean study material. See korean-class-free.

Can I bring my child? Yes — there are children's rooms, and many run weekend reading and cultural programmes.

I need somewhere to study. Use the reading room. Some have seat-allocation machines.

Does borrowing cost anything? Borrowing from public libraries is free. Only some programmes charge for materials.

Take care

Don't leave your seat unattended for long in a reading room — most have rules on seat use. Libraries are quiet spaces, so take calls outside. Return borrowed books on time.

Related

community-center · korean-class-free · park-leisure · education-support-adult · child-education-support

Source

National Library of Korea www.nl.go.kr / As of 2026-08