Theosophy Forward (TF) in the category The Society, has started a brand-new series highlighting Theosophical libraries and bookstores connected with the various theosophical traditions the world over. In December 2025 TF published a write-up about The Banyan Tree, in San Diego, California, a joint venture of Jonathan Colbert and Kenneth Small. This was followed by articles about the Esoteric Library in Amsterdam and The New York Theosophical Society and its Quest Bookshop. This time we ask your attention for the library at the International Theosophical Centre (ITC) in Naarden, the Netherlands. This magnificent and ever active centre is well-known in theosophical circles, and it is indeed a pleasure now to also introduce its fine library and its unique study facilities to the readers of TF. Warm thanks to Arend Heijbroek and Ingmar de Boer. (JNK)
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Follow the sign
The library at the International Theosophical Centre (ITC) contains a collection of nearly 11,000 book titles in the field of Theosophy, esotericism, religion and related topics. It shares its internet catalogue with the library of the Theosophical Society in Amsterdam, which is known as the oldest and largest public esoteric library in the Netherlands, with 35,000 titles. However, it has its own specific policy for building its collection.
From the outside looking in
A short history
The ITC library has always been located at the Besant Hall. With the fire of the original wooden building in 1965, those present at the time tried to save as many books as possible, unfortunately many were left with water damage. After building the new Besant Hall in 1970, the library had a fresh start, gradually rebuilding its collection. In particular over the last few years it has grown into an attractive study library.
One can find both introductory books as well as profound study materials
ITC: spiritual study and retreat centre in the forest
The ITC's mission is to serve humanity by inviting people to work on the process of inner transformation. Its broader aim is the regeneration of humanity. The library supports both fields, of study and retreat. Various spiritual organisations have their activities at the Centre, including Theosophical programmes, Buddhist retreats and Yoga schools. For all of these activities, as well as for individuals, the library is available. Anyone interested in the various forms of esotericism and spirituality is welcomed.
A precious collection of nearly 11,000 books
The collection
Since the space for the library is limited, choices have been made. Superficial books which do not meet our quality criteria, are not listed, but for all relevant subjects one can find both introductory books as well as profound study materials, historically relevant or contemporary. The collection of nearly 11,000 books is nearly complete in basic Theosophical and Krishnamurti literature, as well as comparative study of religions, which helps students to understand esoteric aspects of these. It is particularly strong in the different aspects of Gnostics, Hinduism and Buddhism. Most study books are in English.
The ITC library's Patanjali collection
As for magazines, focus is on those with a historic relationship with the ITC, with the ambition to be complete, such as The Theosophist, The Liberal Catholic Church, Star Magazine, St. Michael’s News and Theosofia, the magazine of the Dutch Section, and Pionier and Theosofisch Maandblad from the former Dutch East Indies.
Catalogue can also be consulted at home
As mentioned, the library of the ITC is affiliated with the internet-based catalogue of the library of the Dutch Section of the Theosophical Society in Amsterdam. The catalogue can also be consulted at home via its website: https://catalog.theolib.net/
You can search there by title, by writer or by subject.
The interior of one of the three three self-catering cottages; unique locations for study, meditation and working on inner-transformation
The ITC library and its special features
For multi-day individual study and meditation, the ITC has three self-catering cottages, for which the library is an additional opportunity. The library itself is a study centre, offering tables, desks for individual study. As for retreats the library offers a broad range of books dealing with inner transformation, including a full range of Krishnamurti, Eastern and Western Mystics, and meditation. This makes ITC attractive as a place in Europe for those to who wish to make a deep study, prepare a publication or for a longer retreat. If required one can also make use of the more extended collection of the Dutch Section in Amsterdam, which is relatively close-by. Books can easily be taken from Amsterdam to the ITC for study purposes.
For more information: https://www.itcnaarden.org/facilities/ or contact the Booking Office:
Borrowing books, location and opening hours
Borrowing books is free of charge and possible for everyone. You don't have to be a member of any organisation.
The library is located in the Besant Hall at the ITC, Meentweg 9, 1411 GR, Naarden, the Netherlands.
Its entrance is situated along the path to the LCC Chapel, see the signs to "Library". The library is open every Wednesday afternoon, officially from 14.00 to 16.00 hours (CDT). During opening hours, the library can be reached by telephone on +31-35-6945781.
Contact via email:
Staff welcomes you
The library staff will be happy to help you with questions about specific literature or specific topics. Often there are interesting conversations about Theosophy, esotericism and spirituality, if desired while enjoying a cup of tea.