The library is extending its opening hours and offering unattended access at some branches. We have prepared answers to the most frequently asked questions.
From 2025, the Municipal Library in Prague is extending its opening hours at selected branches. Libraries are open for longer hours, but in the case of the Central Library, also for longer days. During certain parts of the opening hours, the library is open but operates without the visible presence of librarians, i.e. unattended.
As the opening hours of the branches will be extended in 2026, we have compiled the most frequently asked questions and answers on how to use the library when it is open without staff. Most of the opening hours of the branches are still staffed by librarians who are happy to advise and show you how to use the library services.
Which branches are affected by unstaffed hours?
In January 2026, the following branches will have unstaffed hours during opening hours: Lužiny, Barrandov, Velký mlýn, and Central Library . The Central Library is open the longest, and thanks to unstaffed hours, you can visit it on Saturdays and Sundays. The same applies to Velký mlýn, where library services are available when the local café is open; The kiosks located in shopping centers are completely unstaffed . They operate on a self-service basis during all opening hours, which correspond to the opening hours of the shopping center, specifically Westfield Chodov, Westfield Černý Most, and DBK Budějovická; By the summer holidays of 2026, the opening hours of the Dům čtení, Jezerka, and Dejvice branches will be extended.
How can I tell if the library is open but unstaffed?
Unstaffed opening hours are clearly marked on the library's opening hours sign located on the entrance door. Before visiting the library, you can check the opening hours in the branch profile at www.mlp.cz/pobocky.
These are usually off-peak hours, such as mornings. Unattended hours allow the library to be open to the public while librarians can devote their time to school groups or prepare the afternoon program. An exception is Sunday at the Central Library, when it is unattended for the entire opening day, i.e., from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
How do I get to the library?
The unattended library is accessible to those who have a valid Prague Municipal Library card issued to persons over 15 years of age. To enter the library, you must scan your library card with the reader at the entrance. If the card is valid, the lock will click, the reader will flash green, and the library door can be opened.
The readers are located at the entrance to the library, but depending on the situation, they may be located inside (Central Library, Lužiny) or outside (Barrandov, future Jezerka); To ensure that the reading process runs as smoothly as possible (e.g., exterior readers only read chip cards; reading a barcode requires a little practice—hold the barcode about 10 cm toward the reader), we recommend replacing your barcode reader card with a chip card. If you have a phone with the Android operating system, you can use the Library app, which has a door-opening function.
The most common problems when entering the library are an expired reader card or a card issued to a person under the age of 15.
How do I replace my library card?
You can replace your library card by visiting the library in person and presenting your ID card to the librarian. If your library card is more than three years old, the replacement is free of charge; otherwise, it costs CZK 20.
What services can I use in the self-service library?
During unattended opening hours, borrowing (borrowing and returning books, reservations) and stay (study places) services are available. Some services are limited, such as information services and internet access via fixed stations. The internet is accessible on your own devices via the free mestska knihovna Wi-Fi network.
The following services are not available in unattended mode at the Central Library: ordering from the warehouse, staying in the Workshop, access to the Theater Department, Information Center, and Pragensia.
Tip! Returns at the Central Library are available right from the entrance hall (to the right of IDIOM), so no library card is required.
How do I pay in the unattended library?
You can pay for library services (late fees, fulfilled reservations, etc.) by card at the self-service checkout. This is a touch screen connected to a payment terminal. Simply scan your library card and follow the instructions on the screen. Another option is to pay by card on the library website after logging into My Account (tile Deposit/Charged payments). It is also possible to make a deposit (in person, but it can also be done online), from which payments for posted amounts are automatically deducted.
Where can I go for advice?
Even though librarians are not physically available in the library, they are ready to advise you by phone. Just call +420 222 113 555. They will be happy to help you use the services or with any difficulties accessing the library.
The library is a public space, so please be considerate not only of the equipment and books, but also of each other. Thank you!
Prepared by Lenka Hanzlíková.