In 2006 the city of Stockholm announced an international architecture competition for the extension of Asplunds iconic library. On the deadline no less than 1,100 entries had arrived, with representatives from 120 countries. Now the jury has selected six entries for the second stage of the competition that will start in May. In connection to this, The Swedish Museum of Architecture presents a large exhibition about the City Library and it's present and future role.
The New Library
The exhibition shows the library and it's importance as a building, as a hub and it's new roles. This is illustrated in five sections:
1. Introduction
Why does Stockholm need a new Public Library?
This section describes the background to the competition and how the library's role has changed since it was built in 1928. (Photo credit: Max Plunger)
2. The six best proposals
The six finalists are presented along with the jury's commentaries and a thorough presentation of the selection process.
3. Asplund's library
Through a selection of original drawings and borrowed material this section shows original library and it's origins. Furniture from the actual library will also be on display.
4. The Observatory Hill
How has the area around the Observatory Hill been affected by the Public Library? This part discusses a building's affect on the cityscape.
5. The Children's Library
This section presents a project initiated by the city's children's librarians, where 40 kids have gotten the opportunity to build their own library in with cardboard and glue. The Swedish Museum of Architecture presents a selection of these models.