Get Outside! Library Spaces to Enjoy During Summer Travel

Libraries today are often associated with indoor resources: access to research materials, books, quiet study spaces, free internet, and community event rooms.

But as the weather warms and summer holidays draw near, many libraries also offer compelling outdoor spaces that are free and open to the public during regular hours. Libraries nationwide provide safe play areas for children in inner-city neighborhoods, as well as event spaces available to rent at a fraction of the cost of commercial venues.

While outdoor events might be limited to the hours the library building is open, major systems such as the Houston Public Library offer expansive options. Its Barbara Bush Literacy Plaza includes a covered children’s play area, a performance stage, A/V equipment, and plenty of gathering space—all within easy walking distance.

In our largely screen-driven world, safe outdoor spaces—particularly in crowded urban areas — provide a welcome mental and physical wellness respite. According to an article by the National Park Service on the health benefits of nature, thirty minutes in a park or outdoor space can improve heart health, lower cholesterol, blood glucose, and blood pressure, and even reduce the need for ADHD and ADD medications in children. Just five minutes surrounded by nature can improve mood, self-esteem, and relaxation. Physical activity in any outdoor space can lower cortisol levels by 15 percent.

Stopping to smell the flowers on your way to pick up your next read is, quite literally, good for your health!

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Here are a few notable libraries worldwide that have invested in creating quality outdoor spaces for their patrons.

Monroe County Public Library Southwest Branch, Bloomington, IN

The Monroe County Public Library Southwest Branch, an award-winning community space, is just as gorgeous on the outside as it is on the inside. Built to blend seamlessly with the natural slope of the landscape, the grounds feature a peaceful labyrinth and a lighted outdoor amphitheater for library events and performances.

The unique, tiered design places public services on the upper level, with meeting spaces along the stairwell that connects patrons to the lower level. Even indoors, nature is never far, with large glass windows on all sides overlooking the tranquil Midwestern woodland setting.

Seoul Outdoor Library, Korea

Truly thinking outside the box, the Seoul Metropolitan Library operates three outdoor library spaces in Seoul Plaza, Gwanghwamun, and Cheonggyecheon. These facilities offer free access to book carts for people to browse, pick up, and enjoy — no library card needed, meaning folks from all backgrounds and walks of life can participate.

Bean bags, tents for inclement weather, rugs, and lawn chairs are provided. Talk about a welcome respite in the center of one of the biggest international cities in the world!

Ping Shan Tin Shui Wai Public Library, Hong Kong, China

When space is at a premium, look up! Ping Shan Tin Shui Wai Public Library, a notable library located in the northwest section of the New Territories, features a luxe rooftop reading garden with stunning views of Hong Kong’s signature combination of mountains and seascapes. Patrons can grab their book of choice, take the “lift” (elevator, in American English) straight to the top, and unwind far above the bustling crowds below.

With Hong Kong’s tropical climate, the garden is a welcome resource almost year-round.

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Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library, New York, NY

Speaking of gorgeous rooftop spaces, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library, in the heart of the Big Apple, features a free-of-charge terrace overlooking the iconic skyline. Conveniently located near Bryant Park, visitors can take the elevator to the seventh floor, which opens onto a gorgeous green space that offers facilities for both work and leisure.

In these budget-conscious times, who wouldn’t want to take advantage of this incredible New York moment this summer?

Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland

Featured in “A Traveler’s Guide to Libraries of the World”, Trinity College, the largest library in Ireland, features the famed Book of Kells on display, but more than that, it offers a charming rose garden for visitors to retire to and quietly unwind. While seasonal availability may vary, visitors claim that due to the spacious layout, the garden is hardly ever crowded.

Perfect space for a cozy book read with a cuppa or just a meditation moment.

Kyoto International Manga Museum, Japan

Although not a public library per se, as the materials within cannot be taken outside of the building, the Kyoto International Manga Museum is a must-see for all fans of Japanese comic books (manga). Boasting more than three hundred thousand manga and manga-related materials, visitors are encouraged not only to check out the exhibit but also to take in a volume (or three) on the spacious outdoor steps and lawn, a leftover of the museum’s former days as an elementary school. 

No matter where your travels take you this season, a library is always waiting for you with ample community resources and open doors. Take advantage of those Instagram-worthy views and soak up the sunshine and peace of mind!

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