Abstract: ［Purpose/Significance］In order to commemorate the 110th anniversary of the National Library, this paper takes the National Library and public libraries as the main objects to discuss their roles and position in international cultural exchange.
［Design/Methodology］Based on the text survey, we analyzed the contents of domestic and international regulations and plans relevant to international cultural exchange of libraries.［Findings/Conclusion］It has been found that libraries play five major roles in international cultural exchange, which are mediators, promoters, organizers, centers and leaders. The international cultural exchange activities carried out by libraries include publication exchange, digital library co-construction and sharing, and professional exchange of librarians. According to the roles of libraries and their main activities, it’s suggested that libraries could perform four functions in international cultural exchange, including protecting human cultural heritage, introducing advanced foreign culture, disseminating outstanding national culture, and protecting cultural diversity while promoting cross-cultural communication.［Originality/Value］This study could promote the overall development of libraries’ international cultural exchange.

Key words: Library, Librarianship, International cultural exchange, Culture dissemination