Netherlands library named world's best

A DUTCH library has been named as 2018’s Public Library of the Year.

KopGroep Bibliotheken’s School 7 library picked up the annual IFLA award at this year’s World Congress in Kuala Lumpur. Five libraries from around the world were shortlisted for the award, which is sponsored by library supplier Systematic.

The Public Library of the Year award recognises the positive impact library design and services have on local communities. Winners are selected from an international panel of judges, with accessibility a key factor in this year’s award.

The winning library is part of KopGroep Libraries, which runs a number of school and public libraries across the Netherlands. KopGroep Director

Jacinta Krimp said: “The recognition means a lot for School 7, but also for the whole KopGroep Libraries organisation. Winning this award shows that in a new building, with an open and functional architecture, you can undertake many activities that are appreciated by the public.”

The School 7 library was designed to be as welcoming as possible to all groups within the community. The library includes a theatre, café and a range of services to meet local needs. Jacinta said: “We want everybody to feel at home in our library: children, adults, seniors, immigrants and people with language difficulties. School 7 is a real ‘third place’ where you can not only borrow books, but also work, read, take courses or attend activities. You can even get married in our atmosphere-laden theatre, or hold a birthday event in the café. Anything and everything is possible in School 7.”