The Istituto Lama Tzong Khapa houses a library of approximately 8,000 valuable volumes, most of them of a highly specialized nature. The collection is devoted primarily to Eastern philosophies, with a particular focus on Buddhism in general and Tibetan Buddhism in particular, as well as Buddhist art and iconography. Many of these works are available in Italy only through our library. A number of volumes are unique copies, out of print, or rare editions.

A smaller section of the collection is dedicated to subjects that complement the study of Buddhism, including interreligious dialogue; Buddhism in its encounter with Western science, psychology, and neuroscience; Tibetan medicine; body-based disciplines; and the history of Tibet.

The library reading room is always open as a space for study and quiet reflection. We also offer loan and reference services, with opening hours that vary throughout the year, particularly in relation to the schedule of our residential study programmes, including the Masters Program and the Basic Program.

How to request a library loan

Please note that books may be requested even when library staff are not present:

by filling in the form available in the library, indicating your first name, surname, and the title of the requested book or by email at biblioteca@iltk.org

Requested books will be prepared by staff during loan service hours and left on the desk with the requester’s name.

Opening hours

Daily: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm

Reference and loan service

Wednesday: 12:30 pm – 5:30 pm

Thursday: 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Friday: 12:30 pm – 7:00 pm

Saturday: 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm / 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Sunday: 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

For specific research requests, or outside the scheduled service hours, please complete the form below. During service hours, we will respond with information regarding availability and collection arrangements.

Books must be collected in person from the library. Please note that a valid Institute membership is required in order to access both loan and reference services. The standard loan period is 30 days, unless an extension is arranged with the library by email at biblioteca@iltk.org. A maximum of three books may be borrowed at any one time.

We also kindly remind users that returned books, if not handed directly to a member of staff, should be placed on the designated shelf at the library entrance.

Thank you.