Amsterdam Public Library ...

One of my favorite moments during our visit to Amsterdam was when my brother-in-law took us to the Amsterdam Public Library (Openbare Bibliotheek Amsteram). At first I was like sure, okay, I like books. But it was beyond anything I'd ever seen in a library. I was in awe the moment we walked into the entrance here. Will you look at this place? I couldn't wait to roam around and get inspired. I loved it.
The library spans over 7 floors–it's actually the largest public library in all of Europe! As you can kind of see here, the place is huge. And can we talk about the overall design and feel of the place? The lighting throughout the library was amazing too. It was designed by brilliant Dutch architect Jo Coenen and was awarded "Most Sustainable Public Building in Amsterdam" in 2008. There are 600 internet-connected computers, 50 multi-media workplaces, and an underground storage area for 2,000 bikes (only 1,200 parking spaces for cars–makes sense).
As you can see people really post up and hang out here. I loved how relaxed the environment was, yet you could tell everyone was really into what they were doing. My BIL said he would study here all the time while acquiring his MBA.
This restaurant was also a big reason to study here. There was the most amazing view of the city just behind me. Great place for a lunch date. There was also a café on a different level with a fully stocked bar and beer on tap. They really give you no reason to leave this library.
This entire floor was dedicated to kids. At the top of that little spiral staircase was a loft where kids could just hang out and read.
I loved seeing this little girl reading in this giant red chair.
A teepee was also set up in the middle of the floor for kids to play and/or read in.
How cool is this Apple computer station for the kiddos? Little dude on the left cracked me up with his sweatband, glasses and painted cat face. He was definitely into his duck game.

9 comments:

Lemanie said...

That is the coolest looking library ever! I have a friend that keeps trying to get to me to go to Amsterdam. I might just have to take her up on her offer because I'd love to go here!!

Lemanie's Randomness Blog

Karena said...

This is simply amazing. Bravo for making a library space into a creative enlightening and exciting place to learn!

The 2012 Artist Series featuring Designer and Paper Artist Anita Rivera...(of Castles Crowns and Cottages)is on my site, please stop by! Her work is amazing!

xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena

Tiffany Kadani said...

That kid! I want to take him home, haha!

Robyn said...

amazing spae. i could work AND play there!

The slow pace said...

That's so cool!!! And that kid with the headband and the glasses is the cutest thing!

dulci said...

yet another reason Europe rocks...great!

http://ladulcivida.blogspot.com/

annie@mostlovelythings said...

This looks like an amazing library...like no other I've ever seen. Love the huge restaurant, the kids space...Just incredible. Will put this on my list of must see when we go to Amsterdam.

Raluca | WhatWouldGwynethDo said...

This is so cool. I am obsessed with libraries, I wish ours were this amazing.

Theresa / InspirationCOOP said...

Ok, why don't we have a library like that near us? The kids and I can spend hours at our local library and it's teeny-tiny. We would move right into this library. I don't think anyone would notice. ;) Seriously, it's really beautiful, and goes to show where they place their priorities.

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