NEWSWEEK.COM 63
Seikei University Library
Tokyo, Japan
Libraries are usually known for
their quiet atmosphere, but this
one encourages conversation.
Pritzker Prize-winner Shigeru
Ban designed the library with
space-age, free-standing
soundproofed pods to respect
those who need uninterrupted
study, while also being conducive
to other methods of learning; they
serve as perfect spots for study
groups and lively discussions.Bishan Library
Singapore
Built in 2006, this library with skylights and trellises,
is meant to invoke a modern glass treehouse.
Glass pods of varying colors stick out of the
building randomly to create cozy yet airy nooks
for reading throughout the building. At the same
time, a more open-plan children’s room on the
basement level invites interaction while preventing
noise from ɿltering upward and disturbing those
concentrating in the lofty perches above.Beach Library
Albena, Bulgaria
Reading a book on the beach is a classic, and in
Bulgaria, one library encourages tourists to do just
that. The white, weather-resistant shelves lined
up not far from the surf feature 6,000 books in
15 languages so every visitor can ɿnd the perfect
beach read to enjoy while soaking up the sun’s rays.Macquarie
University Library
Sydney, Australia
A stunning combination
of cutting-edge and
sustainable, this
building was made
from recycled materials,
features a green roof
and was designed to
emulate the look of a
eucalyptus tree. It is
also state of the art,
using robot cranes to
bring requested books
to the front desk.08
06: ALEXANDER JOEʔAFPʔGETTY; 07: COURTESY OF BISHAN LIBRARY; 08: SEIKEI GAKUEN; 09: COURTESY OF MACQUARIE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY85609
07
05
Novel Libraries That
Encourage Borrowing
Visiting your local library is the best way to celebrate March’s National Reading Month, or to celebrate
the birthday of beloved children’s book author, Dr. Seuss, on March 2. The rest of the year, some
libraries use unique architecture to encourage visitors to explore the racks and settle down with a
new book, or use roving libraries to bring books to hard-to-reach populations. No matter how they
achieve it, these amazing libraries are keeping the magic of reading alive. —Laura PowersUNCHARTED794