In 1454, Cesena opened a library built around an unusual idea: an important collection of books could belong to the community and be available for public use. The Biblioteca Malatestiana is regarded as Europe’s first civic library; earlier libraries existed, though most belonged to monasteries, universities, rulers, or wealthy families.
The project began when Cesena’s Franciscan friars outgrew the small library in their convent. Malatesta Novello, lord of the city, financed a new building designed by Matteo Nuti of Fano. Construction lasted from 1447 to 1452; after the manuscripts were arranged, the library opened on August 15, 1454.
