A New Favourite Hangout Spot
For next generation nerds and bookworms
Well I certainly didn’t expect to find something like this when I went to visit Calgary. Though I had some inkling of how unique it was, I was only somewhat prepared to experience it. I half expected to see some lovely architecture and then the rest would just be, well, a library. There are many libraries in the world that are extraordinarily beautiful for their design and aesthetics. To me, a library isn’t exactly one of those page turner locations to get all excited about - haha! Get it? (yeah OK, terrible joke).
Completed in 2018 and located on the east end of the city centre, the Central Library is a popular tourist attraction for its unique architecture and style.
These days, libraries need to be more than just books with a small community space. Imagine a space that is equal on both fronts and more. This place felt flowing and inspires you to grab book and find a cozy corner to read. Even better, imagine that it can also inspire your creativity with its unique design and offerings (it has a recording booth!). I could have spent all day just exploring, reading or feeling creative and typing up a blog. Yes, it’s that cool.
All four floors all accessible via elevator or by the beautiful central staircase. You can’t miss it when you walk in.
And don’t miss the beautiful art as you explore this gem!
If you want to know more about the building itself, click here.
For those who libraries need to be just that, books and more books, well this place might not be entirely for you. Yes there are books, but there’s so much more than that here and some may find it distracting. In my opinion, I think these days, the purpose of a library has evolved.
The old cliché of libraries being just for nerds or bookworms is not applicable here. And if you still think that, then you will know where to find this nerd.
I have worked in IT for a public library system in Tennessee for the past 22 years. After I left the Air Force, I never thought that was where I would end it, but here I am... Since 2000 most libraries have done a wonderful job reinventing themselves and their popularity is at the core of a local community. It's never glamorous to write about a library and those on the outside are amazed when they do finally visit, but it has been more than just books for over 20 years.