JOIN USAs someone who has used some of the best libraries in the world, I thought I wouldn’t chance upon another one that could surpass what I’ve seen. But it turned out that I was wrong.
An international library group has just deemed a library in Denmark the most cutting edge public library in the world. If you are a library lover, you now have a reason to visit Denmark. Dokk1, a public library in Aarhus has been crowned the ‘Best Library in the World.’
The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) awarded Dokk1 the best library title at a meeting in Columbus, Ohio, USA, throwing spotlight on the futuristic building that opened in June 2015. The largest public library in Scandinavia has books and workspaces like most public libraries, but also serves other functions for the community by housing meetings, performances, art installations and places for kids to play. Danish architecture firm Schmidt Hammer and Lassen designed the building. The special features include plenty of open spaces with modern finishes, natural light and sweeping views of the riverport just outside.
The building even has the world’s largest tubular bell, which peals each time a baby is born in the city (new parents can push a button in their maternity ward to activate the bell). Over one million people have visited the library and used it since its opening.