Tag: public libraries

#FridayFun: Public Libraries in China

I can completely understand my friend who keeps on travelling through China and is finding it difficult to return to the US or even Europe. Anyone offering to do a guided tour of Chinese libraries and bookshops is onto a winner there (even if I can’t read a word of their books!).

The Chongqing Zonshuge bookstore with mirrored ceilings (which I’ve noticed is quite a trend), from Interior Design
Library in Xian designed by Wutopia Lab, from Interior Design
I’m pretty sure I’ve shown this one before, but here it is from another angle: the Tianjin library, from CNN
The National Library of China in Beijing, from the library’s website
Guangzhou Library main entrance and atrium, from Wikimedia Commons
The Beijing City Library at night, from YouTube
The Shongshuge Library, from Plain Magazine

Friday Fun: Public Libraries

While some countries are burning or closing down libraries, there are other places where public libraries meet outstanding architecture and multi-purpose functionality, and are highly valued.

Helsinki University Library, from Arch Daily.
The Black Diamond Library in Copenhagen, from SchmidtHammerLassen architects’ website.
Not yet built, but this is the design for the new public library in Columbia, Maryland, to be completed in 2027.
Hiye Library in China, from Parametric Architecture.
The Oodi Library in Helsinki, from Arch Daily.
The Beijing City Library, from Dezeen.