Libraries of the University of Latvia Library of University of Latvia dates back to 1862 when the first higher education institution in the country - Riga Polytechnic, was founded. In 1919, the University of Latvia was founded on the basis of the Riga Polytechnical Institute. Initially, the faculty libraries were created, while the Central Library of the University of Latvia was established in 1920. The Kalpaka Blvd. 4 was built in 1874 for the mayor of Riga Ludwig Wilhelm Kerkoviuss (1931-1904). The building was constructed by the first Latvian architect Janis Baumanis (1834–1891). J. Baumanis is the author of almost the third part of all buildings
History of the Jews in Latvia History of the Jews in Latvia The History of the Jews in Latvia dates back to the first Jewish colony established in Piltene in 1571. Jews contributed to Latvia's development until the Northern War (1700–1721), which decimated Latvia's population. The Jewish community reestablished itself in the 18th century, mainly through an influx from Prussia, and came to play a principal role in the economic life of Latvia. Under an independent Latvia, Jews formed political parties and participated as members of parliament. The Jewish community flourished. Jewish parents had the right to send their children to schools using Hebrew as the