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Libraries for the masses

17.Jul.2007

Idea Store is an attempt to bring back the communities to their public libraries. The project consists in a collection of modern buildings where the best characteristics of the traditional libraries meet the needs for new information services. Inside you may find a wide stock of books, CDs and even DVDs you can borrow freely. But besides that, the idea is to build spaces that promote socialization and education. The Idea Stores have also coffee shops, computers with Internet access and scheduled events and learning courses on different subjects.

This project is running in London, where four Idea Stores have already been open and three are being constructed. One of the most important features is the buildings’ location. They are located in places where they’re really needed and will be used, like city central markets and squares. The building design is also very appealing, from the interior to the exterior as you can see in the photos. There’s an interview with the lead architect of the project.

I find this to be an wonderful solution to bring the people back to libraries and to create communities around them. Getting away from the old monasteries with books full of dust to open spaces, where people can really improve their knowledge and just have a good time with their friends.

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2 Comments

It's a great idea! I must try it the next time I go to London. Thanks for the post, Sérgio.

mj valente / 18.Jul.2007 at 09:27am

The next time you go to London, and visit one of those libraries, don't forget to take pictures and tell all about it. If it is as good as it looks...