The region is an international hub for higher education, scientific research, and business training.
- **Universities:** Home to some of Spain's most prestigious public universities, including the Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM), Charles III University of Madrid (UC3M), Technical University of Madrid (UPM), King Juan Carlos University (URJC), and the historic University of Alcalá (UAH). - **Primary & Secondary:** A massive network of public, private, and *concertado* (charter) schools. The regional government heavily promotes a bilingual education program (Spanish/English) in public elementary and high schools. - **Libraries:** The region is served by a comprehensive network of municipal and regional public libraries, and is home to the National Library of Spain (Biblioteca Nacional de España), which holds copies of all books published in the country.