Norwegian libraries you need to see

In Norwegian libraries, you can borrow anything from electric bikes to guitars and hammocks. Nowadays, a library is so much more than just the books on its shelves. It can be a source of groundbreaking architecture, a social hub, and a venue buzzing with lively debates and intriguing talks. It can even be a place you go to cook your dinner, play the guitar, or mend various broken household items. Libraries are increasingly extending their reach.

Deichman Biblo Tøyen in Oslo is the first-ever library in Norway where there are no adults allowed. Tromsø has transformed an old cinema into a cultural arena with a heartbeat of its own. In contrast, the modern architecture of Vennesla Library and Culture House has gained worldwide fame.

The doors of the Oslo Public Library (Deichman) in Bjørvika in Oslo opened in 2020, and there is no doubt that this too is a library out of the ordinary. It contains everything from restaurant and cinema to digital workshops, elaborate play areas, and more. In 2021, It received the The Public Library of the Year award by the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) for how it "combines environmental awareness with architectural flair" and for showing "how libraries can function as institutions that bring people together.”

­“The Northern countries are far ahead when it comes to reimagining the use of libraries,” says Knut Skansen, director at the Oslo Public Library, main branch.

Skansen explains how the joy people get from gathering together was the main reason for expanding the library.

“The building is intended to be a free common area to house conversations, debates, sharing, learning, reading, and much more,” he says.

An app guides you through the five floors of the stunning new library in Bjørvika, in Oslo city centre. The top floor is nothing short of perfection if all you want to do is kick back with a good book and a picturesque view of the capital. You’ll be able to see Langkaia, Oslo Opera House, and much of the Oslofjord.

“The library is meant to give you the sensation of being in a large and cosy living room. It's a space you can use between being at home and work or school,” says Skansen.

Learn all about five other unique libraries below.

1. Stormen library, Bodø

Thanks to its grand glass façade and harbour views, stepping inside Stormen in Bodø feels like walking into a literary cathedral. The building was designed by British firm DRDH Architects, and both the library and its matching concert hall have helped the architects nab a number of prizes. The Norwegian Library Association named Stormen Library of the Year 2018. During that same year, the library hosted more than 650 events and activities, and welcomed 470,000 visitors.

2. Tromsø Library and City Archives

Both locals and visitors are drawn to the library and city archives, a lively literary centre in the heart of Tromsø. Its uniquely constructed ceiling dates back to the days when the building was home to Fokus Cinema, which opened in 1973. The new library opened in 2005.

The library stands out due to its large number of exciting projects and activities. Since many people tend to feel too hot or too cold, the library has set different temperatures on different floors to make sure all visitors can enjoy their reading as they like it!

3. Vennesla Library and Culture Hall

One of our most highly acclaimed libraries is located in Vennesla. Ever since it opened in 2011, it has been an important arena for concerts, theatre, and film screenings. The striking architecture is by Helen & Hard AS whose design has won several prizes. The library has been named the fourth most stunning library in the world by The Huffington Post, and has been described as one of the world’s top 10 most magnificent libraries, together with Stormen in Bodø, by tech magazine Wired.

4. Deichman Biblo Tøyen, Oslo

At Deichman Biblo Tøyen, the adults have to wait outside while the kids and young adults – aged 10 to 15 – bask in a wide collection of books and activities. The library opened in 2016 and contains all sorts of facilities, from a study room and a computer lab for programming, to a stage and a lego wall. Film screenings, cooking classes, coding clubs, author visits, and numerous workshops are just some of the countless activities the kids can enjoy here.

5. The Future Library, Oslo

The Future Library is an art project by Scottish artist Katie Paterson on commission from Bjørvika Utvikling. The objective is to collect one original text by a new author every year between 2014 and 2114. The texts will be sealed away in a purpose built room in the new public library in Bjørvika, and will first be made available in 2114. 1,000 trees have been planted in the Nordmarka forest in Oslo to provide printing paper for the texts.

So far, famous authors including Margret Atwood, David Mitchell, and Sjón have contributed to the project.

Learn more about the Future Library here.