Top 3 Most Enchanting Libraries in Barcelona

Top 3 Most Enchanting Libraries in Barcelona

It should come as no surprise that a city with such astounding exteriors would offer pretty remarkable interiors as well. Book lovers will be pleased to explore three incredibly enchanting library facilities during their visit to the city.

Biblioteca Pública Arús in Barcelona – by Biblioteca Pública Arús – Uploaded by them

Whether you’ll be in Barcelona a few hours or a few months, the city libraries are open to the public provided its a weekday and within their hours of operation. Most libraries in Barcelona don’t open on weekends so take note of their weekday times and be aware that showing up fifteen minutes before closing is purely self-torture and not recommended.

Shall we?

1. Biblioteca Pública Arús in Barcelona 

This library in Barcelona is situated right opposite the beautiful Ciutadella Park in the center of the city .

It was founded in 1895 by a man named Rossend Arús, after whom the facility is named. This was Barcelona’s first ever library and is the oldest one still remaining. The building was actually the private home of Rossend Arús who decided to donate the space to the greater good and progression of the city.

In addition to books, the library also holds a vast collection of artworks and sculptures dating back centuries. It’s a fascinating and historic space to walk through, with or without the intention of reading.

Biblioteca Pública Arús in Barcelona – by Biblioteca Pública Arús – Uploaded by them

In fact, the library is now used predominantly as a research center and none of the books can actually be checked out. If you would like to make use of them you will need to apply for an access card, which comes at a fee of €20.

The application process is slightly tedious. You’ll have to go directly to the library with two recent passport photos and complete the application form, pay the fee and then wait for your card. Once issued it is valid for use for three years.

For those just looking to enjoy the space for an afternoon, there are daily guided tours that offer fact about the library’s past. It’s a wonderful way to spend a rainy day in Barcelona if you happen to encounter one.

Pop into the Firebug Bistro next-door for refreshments; their avocado toast and Eggs Benedict will make you as happy as the books did.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday – 11am to 3pm

ADDRESS: Passeig de Sant Joan, 26, 08010 Barcelona, Spain

Metro STATION: Arc de Triomf

2. Biblioteca de Catalunya in Barcelona 

Moving slightly south of the center, deeper into el Raval, we find another very enchanting and, in some ways, haunting library of Barcelona.

The Biblioteca de Catalunya building is hundreds of years old. It’s a massive space that served the majority of its lifetime as the Old Hospital de la Santa Creu before being transformed into a library in 1939.

The building is an architectural masterpiece, but needed severe restoration following its hospital years. The grand archways managed to hold up most of the infrastructure, but poor upkeep required years of intensive reparation to be done around the grounds.

Biblioteca de Catalunya in Barcelona – by Biblioteca de Catalunya – Uploaded by them

Today it serves as a public space of knowledge for the locals and travelers in these parts. The interior is comprised of an impressive adult library, as well as a smaller children’s library.

It is within close proximity of the Pompeu Fabra University, so students regularly make use of the facility for their studies. There’s a wonderful attitude of education that is tangible between these walls.

Travelers to Barcelona who need a place to get some work done remotely find great solace at the Biblioteca de Catalunya. Internet cafes and co-working spaces aren’t for everyone; a library offers private and quiet work space instead.

Access to the library and facilities is absolutely free!

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday – Various Times

ADDRESS: Carrer del Carme, 47, 08001 Barcelona, Spain

Metro STATION: Sant Antoni

3. Biblioteca Jaume Fuster in Barcelona 

The Biblioteca Jaume Fuster is not enchanting in the way more ancient, preserved library buildings are. On the contrary it is the newest and most modern library facility in the city. But there is something about the space and light that makes this a strong contender in the whimsy category.

The library is in the southern region of the neighborhood of Gracia; a popular tourist area known for great authentic tapas and guided walking tours.

Travelers love stopping by the library because of its extensive collection of travel related content. Books on where to go and what to see around Spain are in abundance, as are all other literary works one would expect to find in a well stocked book space.

Biblioteca Jaume Fuster in Barcelona – by Biblioteca Jaume Fuster – Uploaded by them

The library was named after Catalan writer called Jaume Fuster, and it was completed only very recently in 2005. There is a cafe onsite, you’ll see it as you enter the facility; this is the only semi-noisy part of the space, the rest is peace and quiet at its best.

The library is made up of many different zones. In addition to the book rooms there are also magazine rooms intended for relaxation and light reading. The children’s library is safe and little ones can roam around while you head to your own desired areas.

Library cards are issued at reception upon arrival and the process is relatively simple. It’s become somewhat of a desired tourist souvenir to take a card from this Barcelona library home from one’s trip.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Opening Hours: Friday to Wednesday – 10am to 9pm

ADDRESS: Pl. de Lesseps, 20, 08023 Barcelona, Spain

Metro STATION: Lesseps