There are a number of materials libraries around the world. They have developed from the needs of industry and education institutions to have collective access to physical materials samples where it is possible to touch and feel the materials, discover new materials, and see collected information about them.
In addition to showrooms visits, the materials libraries often offer different types of services, such as access to their online databases, workshops, exhibitions, and other events. Most materials libraries are commercial and charge for their services, but there are also material libraries at some schools and universities that are free to visit. There are also materials databases freely accessable on the web; you will find links to some of these on this page.
These material libraries offer services in exchange for payment, such as access to showrooms, material databases online, and events.
Access to Materialbiblioteket's permanent showroom is free.
Material ConneXion Skövde and New York among other cities
Materialbiblioteket Stockholm
Innovatheque Paris and Strasbourg
MatèriO Paris among other cities
