The largest library in the world opens its doors in Tianjin, China
With more than 1,2 M books and futuristic shapes, the Tianjin Binhai library imposes itself as the largest in the world.
In the north-east of China, the city of Tianjin is in the spotlight since it has treated itself to an outstanding library that it took the Dutch architectural cabinet MVRDV three years to build. Comprising stratum reflecting different levels of knowledge, and surmounted by vaulted arches in cathedral shape, one penetrates into this building of 33 700 m² through an oval eye-shaped opening.
Tianjin Binhai, the display-window library of China
Inserted in a district with a cultural vocation, this futuristic venue is designed with many overtones of white and its ground floor houses a luminous spheric auditorium. The giant atrium allows the fluidity of 4 000 persons expected each day, shelves are divided in cascade from floor to ceiling, while the upper levels are planned for meeting rooms, technical surfaces for computers and audio e-learning.
The luminous sphere of the auditorium is placed at the center of a sober and streamlined space. © DR
Today, the wide array of books displayed in the upper shelves are still trompe-l'œil. © DR
An attractive cultural site
Located between upscale dwellings, the old part of town, the shopping area and government offices, the Tianjin Binhai Library is about to become the new rendezvous of students, researchers, editors, but also a hot touristic attraction for all those who enjoy taking unusual photos.
The access to books stored at high levels can be made upon a simple request, via elevators… © DR
Tianjin Binhai, a monument to cultural vocation
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