Library
The Oslo Museum Library is located in Frogner Park, adjacent to the Museum of Oslo and the Theatre Museum. It is Norway’s only specialist library dedicated to the history of Oslo, offering an extensive collection of local history literature.
The Museum Library at houses a unique collection on the history of Oslo, covering everything from urban development and the lives and living conditions of the city’s residents through the ages, to immigration history, urban culture, and theatre history.
The library is the only specialist library in Norway devoted to Oslo history and consists of a comprehensive collection of local history literature built up over more than one hundred years.
Visitors can borrow books and receive assistance in finding sources and archival material. The library provides study and workspace seating, access to a photocopier, and wireless internet. We are also happy to answer questions and suggest sources by email.
Please note that most of the library's collections, literature, and reference materials are in Norwegian.
Literature: History of Oslo, local literature on Oslo’s districts and neighbourhoods, architecture, urban development, business history, institutions and organisations, art history, biographies, theatre history, immigration history, and much more
Journals and Periodicals: Around 30 current journals, in addition to a large number of older titles.
Newspaper Clippings: An extensive and informative newspaper clipping collection covering, among other topics, addresses, buildings, and districts in Oslo.
Address Directories: A collection of address directories from Kristiania/Oslo.
Maps: Map collections illustrating the city’s development from the 18th century to the present day.
Archives and Private Collections: Archives relating to private individuals, organisations, and businesses connected to Oslo. Many of these archives can be searched through the National Archives Portal (Arkivportalen).
Address: Halvdan Svartes gate 58, 0266 Oslo
Take tram 12 or 15 or bus 20 to Frogner plass, or all subway lines to Majorstuen
Visit the Library
The Museum Library is open by appointment on weekdays between 10:00 and 15:00.
To arrange a visit, please contact: bibliotek@oslomuseum.no
The library shares its entrance with Oslo Museum’s administration building in Frogner Park.
Contact the Library
Search the Library
Looking for something specific? Search our database.