Library Lovers
Down The Ages
HISTORICAL
Saraswati Mahal Library, Thanjavur, India is one of the oldest existing libraries of South Asia. Started by Nayak Kings of Thanjavur as a Royal Library for the Kings and their family. This beautiful library has over 49,000 manuscripts written on paper as well as palm leaves! Here you can find medical books as well as rare Sanskrit writings and those in many other Indian languages. Encyclopedia Britannica mentions the library as the “Most remarkable library of India”
CONTEMPORARY
The Muyinga Library in Burundi, Africa, is a haven for deaf children, built as part of an inclusive boarding school. Its unique sisal rope hammock mezzanine offers a cozy spot for children to read and relax. Designed with local materials, the library serves both the school and the wider Muyinga community, fostering education, inclusivity, and social connection. By blending modern design with cultural heritage, it creates a welcoming space for all learners.
INNOVATIVE
Epos: the Boat Library. Harsh winter weather makes it impossible for people in remote Norwegian villages to access libraries, which led to the creation of the Epos, a 24-meter book boat. Operating from September to April, it visits 150 villages along the fjords, carrying 6,000 books, a kitchen, and crew quarters. The boat stops for two hours at each location, providing free library services to eager visitors, especially children.
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