The Royal Library was founded by Frederik III (b. 1609), king of Denmark from 1648 to 1670. From his royal ancestors he had inherited a modest collection of books, and during the 1650’s and 1660’s he managed to acquire a number of large private collections. At the time of his death the library comprised about 21,000 volumes.

The King aimed at creating a large and comprehensive library. Such a “universal library” formed part of the contemporary ideal of the learned prince. Prestige was attached to a large collection of rare and beautiful books from many parts of the world. Frederik III was in contact with people travelling in the Arab world, and he also saw to it that Icelandic saga manuscripts were acquired for his library.

See a reconstruction of the old library hall here.