The library's building was erected in 1822–1828 with the financial support of Edward Raczyński Foundation.

The structure of a classical building features a colonnade reminiscent of the eastern façade of the Louvre.

In front of the main building of the library stands the Hygieia's Fountain statue created by Albert Wolff in 1841.

It was officially opened on 1 July 2013 and covers the area of 11,000 square metres and was co-financed by European Union funds.

The library also exercises control over the museums of such writers as Henryk Sienkiewicz, Kazimiera Iłłakowiczówna and Józef Ignacy Kraszewski.