The Directorate of Public Libraries at the Ministry of Education supervises nine public libraries throughout the country. It offers its various services to Bahrain society at all levels.

Manama Public Library was the first to be opened in Bahrain in 1946. It became a depository for United Nations publications and Bahrain since 1975, due to the effective role it plays in the educational and cultural life.

Along with the government of Bahrain interest in opening more public libraries, Muharraq Public Library was opened in 1969. It renamed to be Bahrain National Bank Public Library in Muharraq in April 1997.

Isa Town Public Library was opened in 1972. Four other public libraries were opened in Sitra, Riffa, Hidd and Jidhafs in 1976. Arad Public Library and Salmanya Medical Center branch of public library were opened in 1979.