Spectacular libraries to visit in Helsinki

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Finnish design is spectacular, and it is especially well presented by the libraries in Helsinki. I would like to introduce you four different libraries in Helsinki which are worth to visit. Main library OOdi, academic library of university of Helsinki, library with large music section in Töllö, and traditional Rikhardinkatu library.


Oodi library

Oodi library is a beautiful building. It´s an experience to visit it just from the point of architecture. In this library you can experience Finland. 


Architect of Oodi: ALA Architects 

Amazing design, support of creativity and education, cool place for work, a lot of space, possibility to enjoy good café. OOdi is not just a library, it has concept of being everyone´s shared living room. In the second floor are for example 3D printers, sew machines, game rooms, office rooms and much more.




 I like the most third floor where are books and it´s very nice place where to spent extra time during day between some events. Ideal for reading and studying. During warm days is opened large terrasse from which is very nice view. It´s also possible to sit there.




When I was on my first internship in Finland, I was going to Oodi when I wanted to be alone among people. I usually sit on the third floor on the wooden stairs and read my book. It felt cosier than being by myself in my student´s accommodation. And I felt I´m part of the Helsinki life. I always feel in Oodi very good.


Main library of University of Helsinki

Library of university of Helsinki is the largest multidisciplinary research library in Finland.


Architect of the main library of University of Helsinki: Anttinen Oiva Architects

 If you are a student and writing a thesis, researcher or anyone else looking for a scientific literature, this is a place where to go. This library is an independent institution of the university of Helsinki and it´s open to all public, not just to students and stuff of the university. Also, the design is overwhelming.






Töölö library 

Töölö library is well known for its music section. It was opened in 1970 and that time it was the first library in Helsinki having the music section. 


Architect of Töölö library: Aarne Ervi


There are many many records which of course nowadays doesn´t feel so extra when we can easily find music on Spotify, Youtube and such, but still, the music floor is special. There are many books about music and also there is a concert room and rehearsing room. It is also possible to borrow there some instruments. 



This place is very peaceful and lightful as the front wall is basically just one large window.




Rikhardinkatu library

Rikhardinkatu library is a traditional library with a lot of books of different kind. It used to be the main library of Helsinki, now it´s Oodi library. It´s more peaceful than OOdi, there are many small corners where is possible to sit, read or study. 


Architect of Rikhardinkatu library: Theodor Höijer

Also, the premises are very atmospheric.




If you´re interested to see more from these libraries, watch this video:



I also very much like that in our nearby library there are morning coffees. I´ve never participated, but I think it´s a very happening for people who are for example living alone.  The concept is that everyone brings a cup and just drinks coffee and talks. Pleasant and simple way how to meet people. I think that these small things make Finland the happiest country.

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