Finland’s Turku: our walk around the city’s centre one evening took us past the city’s public library. We ended up spending about an hour there, wandering through the various rooms and enjoying the beautiful architecture, displays and light inside. I enjoyed it so much (and took so many pictures) that I decided it’s worthy of its own post.
The new building, designed by JKMM Architects (www.jkmm.fi), was an addition to the existing 100 year old library building and joins modern and classic architecture. With its wireless network and many displays, it is said to be almost a second living room for the residents of Turku. We definitely felt this as we walked through – the library was packed on a Thursday evening.
The children’s section was particularly interesting, with its fun toy displays, colourful interior design, floor displays and appealing reading areas.
During the summer the licensed cafe and courtyard are open, providing even more enticements to local residents to visit the library. It is possible to take a guided tour of the building, which is located at Linnankatu 2 in the town centre (turku.fi/library).
What’s your favorite library in the world?
Andrea Spirov is a content developer and entrepreneur currently travelling the world with her husband, John, and living as an expat when she isn’t. With a Masters in Media and Communications, Andrea is a specialist in online and is fascinated by the intersection of conversations and technology. Born in the United States, Spirov is a dual American and Australian citizen and has travelled extensively in North and South America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. She currently blogs at InspiringTravellers.com and also takes on freelance projects and consulting work in social media and community management.
