Biblioteca de México

Alameda Central


Mexico City's mega-library holds over 500,000 volumes and an extensive maps collection. Design and architecture fans should visit just to witness the shelves and levels that appear to float. The central halls are given over to art exhibits. The library is housed within the formidable compound known as La Ciudadela. The Ludoteca and Bebeteca are kid- and baby-friendly spaces made for play and to encourage reading.

Be careful not to confuse this library (previously known as Biblioteca de México José Vasconcelos) with the Biblioteca José Vasconcelos 2.5km north.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Alameda Central attractions

1. La Ciudadela

0.04 MILES

The formidable compound now known as ‘The Citadel’ started off as a tobacco factory in the late 18th century, though it’s best known as the scene of the…

2. Centro de la Imagen

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3. Museo de Arte Popular

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A major showcase for folk art, this is a colorful museum that even kids love. Crafts are thematically displayed from all over Mexico, including carnival…

4. Museo Memoria y Tolerancia

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5. El Caballito

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6. Mundo Chocolate Museum

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A beautifully restored 1909 building houses Mundo Chocolate, a museum and store known as MUCHO celebrating all things chocolate. The permanent exhibit…

7. Plaza Juárez

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8. Museo Mural Diego Rivera

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This museum is home to one of Diego Rivera’s most famous works, Sueño de una tarde dominical en la Alameda Central (Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the…