Reference Library

Donated private collections formed the nucleus of the library in 1962, it found a permanent place in 1978. One of the major collections of its type in the country, besides the Persian book collection, it is important for the seven H.C. Andersen collections donated by the Iranian members of the H.C.A. Jury, and posters from different countries, and occasions including the International Children’s Book Day.

The CBC has a collection building policy, whereby only books of literary and informational value are to be added to the library collection. In order to respond to the needs of both Book Reviewing Groups and the various CBC workshops, the section on children’s literature in English and on literary criticism and history have been strengthened. The library also prepares an in-house index to children’s literature in Iran, by reviewing different magazine and collections. Although specially geared to the needs of CBC, it is open to all researchers of children’s literature and book illustration, week days Saturday to Wednesday from 9 A.M. to 7 P.M., and provides mail reference service in Iran and abroad.

The library also undertakes a major part of the CBC’s book promotion activities. Tehran Correctional Education Institute for Young People, rural libraries, Afghan Refugee children, and communities centers have benefited from these well-selected collections. In all cases members of the library staff have been involved in the establishment/follow up activities of the libraries; N. Ansari acts as general coordinator of library activities.

Reference Library at a Glance:,
Updated November 21, 2004