The United States Information Services (USIS) Library, now known as The American Library of the American Embassy in Kathmandu, was opened on May 30, 1952.  The then Prime Minister, Matrika Prasad Koirala, inaugurated the library.  Soon afterwards, it gained enormous popularity and became a focal point of social and cultural events in the capital.

The American Library Kathmandu is an integral part of the American Center, the Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy, and carries out a variety of activities designed to promote a better understanding of the policies, values, institutions, and culture of the United States.

The American Library is open to all.  As in public libraries in the United States, users may take advantage of the books, multimedia facilities, and information services available in the library.  Members may check out books for a period of three weeks, after which a late fee of Rs. 2 per day is charged.  Membership registration costs Rs. 400 for students and Rs. 600 for service holders and non-students.

Collection: Currently, The American Library contains approximately 6000 books and 600 videotapes in the fields of international relations, economics, arts and humanities, and U.S. society.  In addition, the Library now has 700 CD–ROMs, 100 famous American movies and 5 online databases, which cover leading journals related to business, social sciences and other fields.  Newspapers like The New York Times Sunday Edition and The International Herald Tribune are also available.

Online services: The library offers the use of the Internet for research on America and related subjects.  The library charges a nominal cost of Rs. 3 for printouts and Rs. 2 for photocopy service per page.  The library is moving towards greater electronic access of information.  Presently, several commercial and government online services are available to assist your research needs.

Other Services: The American Library is open for all users.  The system is semi self-service; after a user finds the resources that they need, they can make copies or print information themselves.  Of course, library staffs are happy to help if there are any problems.