National libraries are usually established by the national government of a country rather than individuals.

### Why this is right A national library is usually an official institution created, supported, or designated by a country’s government. Its national role, such as preserving the country’s publications and cultural record, is generally assigned by public authority rather than by a private individual. ### The concept A **national library** collects and preserves materials important to a country’s history, culture, and publishing record. It may receive copies of books and other publications through **legal deposit**, a rule requiring publishers to provide copies to a designated library. The exact duties and funding arrangements differ between countries, and some national libraries began as royal or private collections before becoming public institutions. A public library mainly serves local residents, while an academic library mainly supports a university or college. Individuals can donate collections or help found libraries, but that does not usually give a library the official national role. | Library type | Main role | Usual authority or community served | |---|---|---| | National library | Preserves the country’s published and cultural record | The country | | Public library | Provides reading and information services locally | A town, city, or region | | Academic library | Supports teaching and research | A university or college | ### Terms - **National library**: A library with an official country-wide role, often including preservation of national publications and records. - **Legal deposit**: A law or rule requiring publishers to give copies of their publications to a designated library. ### Remember A national library is identified by its official national role, not simply by who donated its books.