Stockholm Public Library, or Stadsbiblioteket, is a city library at Odengatan 53, designed by Gunnar Asplund and opened in 1928. Its defining space is a circular hall lined with books across three levels, set within a building known for its orange exterior and Nordic Classicist design. Look up from the shelves to the chandelier and ring of windows, then explore the other levels, including the children’s area and manga section. It is also a working library, with places to read or study.
A circular hall at the centre
The library’s central rotunda is the main reason to step inside. Bookshelves wrap around the cylindrical hall on three levels, turning the collection into the room’s defining feature. From the centre, look up to take in the height of the space, the chandelier and the ring of windows near the ceiling.
The hall is part of a larger building with a round central volume and three square wings. Its orange exterior gives the library a clear presence on the street, while the interior shifts attention to the books and the shape of the reading room.
Gunnar Asplund’s design
Architect Gunnar Asplund designed the library, which opened in 1928. The building belongs to Nordic Classicism, a style that brought classical forms together with simpler geometry and modern influences. Its circular hall and restrained lines mark a move away from more heavily decorated architecture.
The library also changed how readers could use its collection. Its open shelves let people browse and choose books directly, without first asking a librarian to retrieve them. The rotunda puts that idea in full view, with the books surrounding readers on every level.
More to explore beyond the rotunda
Take time to walk through the other levels and side spaces. The children’s area is a notable stop, and the collection includes a manga section. Small design details are easy to miss if you only look at the central shelves: beneath the dome, a spot on the floor carries sound back to the person standing there. Gold fittings once used for cleaning pens are another detail to look for.
The library is also a place to read or study, with seating around the building. Staff can help with questions, and the library has computers available to borrow. A small café beside the main entrance serves sandwiches, coffee and tea.
Using the library
This is a public library as well as an architectural attraction, so visitors can spend time browsing, reading or working. The collection includes books in Swedish and other languages, including English, Arabic, Persian and Russian. Library membership makes borrowing possible; consult the official library website for current details on access and membership.
Keep your voice low and avoid flash photography so people can continue reading and studying. Arriving early is a useful choice if you want a calmer look around the hall.
FAQ
Who designed Stockholm Public Library?
Gunnar Asplund designed the library. It opened in 1928.
What is the main thing to see inside?
The central rotunda is lined with bookshelves across three levels. Look up to see the chandelier and the ring of windows near the ceiling.
Can you borrow books from Stockholm Public Library?
Yes. Membership allows you to borrow books; check the library’s official website for current membership details.
How long should you spend at Stockholm Public Library?
Allow around 30 to 60 minutes to see the rotunda and explore other levels. You can stay longer to read or study.
