Oodi Central Library

Oodi opened in 2018 as Helsinki's central library and immediately became a symbol of what Finland thinks a public space should be: a free, welcoming timber-and-glass building where the top floor of light and books sits above workshops, recording studios, 3D printers and a cafe. It was named the best new public library in the world.

What you actually see

• The book heaven top floor - the wave-ceilinged light-filled reading floor with a terrace.
• The maker spaces - free studios, sewing machines, 3D printers and workshops.
• The public living room - open lounging and working space for anyone.
• The architecture - the curving timber facade facing the parliament.

When to go

Year-round; a warm, free indoor space ideal any day and especially welcome in the cold and dark. Quieter early in the day than after work and school.

Honest expectations

It is a working public library and community space, so it is busy and lively rather than hushed and grand. There is little to see in a traditional sense; the point is to sit, use it and feel how it works. A short, uplifting stop rather than a big attraction.

Nearby

The parliament, the Kiasma modern art museum and Helsinki central station are all across the square.