The Academy of Sciences Library – 300 years serving the readers

Abstract

The article presents a paper delivered at the International Conference of the Russian Academy of Sciences Library (BAN) on November 23, 2018. The purpose of the paper is to capture the image of the BAN and its reader at key moments of their life over three centuries with method of portraying. The author gives three portraits of the BAN and its readers. The first portrait (1718– 1917) shows birth and formation of the library as a national and academic book depository. It emphasizes influence of the authorities in strengthening international relations with libraries in Western Europe. It notes the active role of readers in its development. The second portrait (1917– 1991) is devoted to the BAN as the basis for the development of the Russian science that occupied an honored place in the world and gained respect for the works of its readers. The ideology of the BAN was focused on their scientific interests. The article characterizes the role of the library in the years of the Great Patriotic War, the new readership and the specificity of readers' requests. It provides information about the readers of the BAN in the postwar years. It considers the activities of the library and its readers in eliminating the consequences of the February 1988 fire. The third portrait (1991–2018) characterizes the BAN and its readers in modern conditions. Attention is paid to the fact that the library carefully preserves the traditions and continues to remain a unique book depository not only to the national, but also tothe world science and culture.