Libraries through the lens New Helsinki Central Library, Finland
HELSINKI’S new central library – widely known as Oodi – opened at the end of last year, bringing a shining example of how libraries can meet the needs of 21st century communities.
This month, Thomas Guignard’s Libraries through the lens feature takes us through the doors of the newly-opened Oodi, which he describes as the “Crown jewel in Helsinki’s already stellar library network”. Thomas visited the library earlier this year and says it is a striking reflection of Finland’s commitment to public libraries and the benefits they bring. He said: “Nicknamed ‘Oodi’ (ode), the building was designed as an ‘inhabited
April-May 2019
bridge’ on three levels. Open on multiple sides, the ground floor acts as a seamless connection with the street and a generous plaza that faces the Finnish Parliament building. The second floor is a maze of rooms and active spaces dedicated to all that makes a modern library: collaborative work, maker spaces, workshops and com- puter rooms are threaded around a stepped open space that can double as a theatre. “The top floor is the aptly named “book heaven”, an uninterrupted, massive reading room topped by an undulated ceiling and surrounded by windows offering unmatched views to the city. Low book- shelves and a playful series of terraces and ramps climbing sharply on either end
of the floor give the space an unmatched feeling of openness. During the warmer months, the reading room extends to an outdoor terrace, strategically oriented to the south-west to fully appreciate the long Scandinavian summer days.”
On the day of Thomas’ visit, people were queuing to get in before the doors were opened, and he says the library felt like a cultural hub for the city. It’s original plans, by ALA Architects, included a sauna – and while that was dropped in the final building, Oodi has retained many elements that help it achieve its status as “Helsinki’s common living room”, including cafés, a theatre and adaptable space both inside and out.
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