The García Márquez Public Library in Barcelona, located at 219 Carrer del Treball, was inaugurated just over a year ago.
And it is already among the finalists to become the best public library in the world, according to the award given by the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLAA).
With its almost 4,000 square meters distributed over six floors, the library is the third largest in Barcelona.
It is only behind the Gràcia library and the Ignasi Iglesias library in Sant Andreu.
In addition to its impressive dimensions, it stands out for its innovative design and strong commitment to the community.
García Márquez Public Library: an incomparable work of art
The García Márquez Library building is a marvel of sustainable architecture, with a wooden structure and large stained glass windows that allow natural light to pass through.
Its Nordic style and careful design make it a pleasant and welcoming space for the user.
But it’s not just the design that makes this library special.
The García Márquez Library has an innovative social and cultural project that makes it a true jewel in the world of public libraries.
The library specializes in Latin American literature, in homage to the Colombian writer, Nobel Prize winner Gabriel García Márquez.
This approach is especially important in a city like Barcelona, where the Latino community is very large and has found in the García Márquez Library a place of its own to showcase its culture and literature.
The library also has an exhibition room, a children’s area, a media library and a radio studio.
The radio studio called Ràdio Maconda, where neighborhood associations participate and all public libraries have their space.
This initiative allows the community to share their ideas and events, and encourages dialogue and inclusion.
Literature and various activities
In addition, the García Márquez Library organizes numerous cultural and literary activities, such as talks, thematic cycles and reading clubs.
One of the library’s first activities was the KMAmèrica, Latin American Literature Festival, which was attended by 22 authors from eleven countries and will be held again this year in June.
The library also organizes activities in collaboration with other libraries and cultural entities in Barcelona, encouraging cooperation and citizen participation.
The social project of the García Márquez Library is one of the highlights of this municipal facility.
The library has become a true cultural and social center, where the community can share its ideas and projects.
Inclusion and participation are fundamental values of this project, which has managed to attract a broad spectrum of Barcelona society.