Barcelona is a diverse hub that attracts individuals from all over the world, whether it be for holidays, studies, or work. With such a variety of people visiting the city, it is essential that there are an array of accessible amenities for the public.
Most notably, Barcelona has a truly incredible selection of public libraries available for its citizens. So, whether you want to complete some work, revise for an exam, or simply immerse yourself in fantastic literature, you are sure to find the perfect spot, especially with the help of this ultimate guide!
1. Biblioteca de Gabriel García Márquez
Located within Barcelona’s Sant Martí de Provençals neighbourhood lies this enchanting library. Featuring expansive windows, pristine white walls, and lots of open spaces, it stands as the perfect spot for working or diving into a new book.
With five floors to explore, you are guaranteed to find your new favourite book. Additionally, for those that want to truly relax, you can choose to either lounge in a hammock or settle into a cosy sofa, doesn’t that sound great?
The library has also been praised for its excellent architecture and for promoting literature within the local community. For this it has been awarded as the World’s Best New Public Library 2023.
2. Biblioteca Joan Miró
If you’ve wandered through Joan Miró Park, chances are you’ve come across this stunning library. Biblioteca Joan Miró offers diverse seating arrangements, ensuring that you find your perfect reading or studying spot. Additionally, it is home to an extensive range of children’s books, making it a must-visit for families with little ones.
The library’s eco-conscious design also contributes to its popularity, as it has energy-efficient lighting and an environmentally friendly heating system. Not only does Biblioteca Joan Miró provide a fantastic workspace, but it also minimises its ecological footprint, making it a great option!
3. Biblioteca de Catalunya
Biblioteca de Catalunya is located near Mercado de la Boqueria, and the former hospital now stands as a well-established research hub, dedicated to preserving and showcasing Catalonia’s rich heritage. Home to nearly 4 million historical documents, it offers an unparalleled environment for reading and working.
The building’s charm lies in its exposed brick walls and grand arches, both of which add to its captivating gothic appearance. Moreover, visitors can enjoy a truly tranquil reading experience in the library’s serene garden.
For those seeking a workspace surrounded by the essence of Catalonian culture, this venue is an ideal haven. Whether you are a student focusing on essays, or an individual who simply wants to indulge in a good read, this library provides an unparalleled blend of history and tranquillity.
4. Biblioteca Sagrada Família – Josep M. Ainaud de Lasarte
As the name suggests, this library sits near Barcelona’s renowned Sagrada Familia basilica. A serene retreat from the city’s vibrancy, it beckons visitors to discover its huge array of books. Its interior is modern, with large glass windows, and a neutral colour scheme, making this a truly tranquil and idyllic library, perfect for literature enthusiasts.
Moreover, the library often hosts engaging sessions designed for children, making it an excellent choice for families seeking an enjoyable activity.
5. Sant Antoni – Joan Oliver
If you are in Eixample, Sant Antoni – Joan Oliver is a must-visit library. This remarkable structure boasts a sleek, modern design featuring expansive windows and a striking monochromatic design. Despite its monochrome tones, the interior exudes ample natural light, making it the ideal spot for both productivity and literary exploration.
This library maximises diverse materials and spaces to create a truly inviting ambiance for both working and leisurely reading. It stands as a rejuvenating space that offers a cool, inclusive environment to unwind, delve into books, and complete tasks.
6. Biblioteca Jaume Fuster
Located in Gràcia is the impressive Biblioteca Jaume Fuster, renowned as one of the city’s largest and most iconic libraries. Joseph Llinás, the designer, has even won awards for this architecturally stunning structure, making this a must-visit library.
Beyond its captivating exterior, the library boasts an incredible interior that holds over 104,000 items accessible to the public. Spread across four spacious floors, it offers ample opportunities to discover your ideal reading spot. Additionally, for those seeking a productive workspace, you can choose to work from the many sizable desks which are placed throughout the library.
Whether you’re preparing for an exam, tackling assignments, or simply seeking solace from the city’s vibrant streets with a good book. Barcelona offers an array of libraries perfectly suited to meet your needs!
