Visiting The National Library of Finland + Helsinki University Library

I’m a sucker for libraries. Especially old, beautiful ones! Something about being surrounded by all those books just… makes me happy.

It doesn’t necessarily have the same effect on my two kids.

For the most part, where I go, they go. But I had no regrets about setting out solo one afternoon so I could visit two of Helsinki’s libraries without any nagging to leave (don’t worry, I’ve already been to Oodi twice!).

First up, The National Library of Finland. It’s the oldest library in the country and has a lot of books (115 km of shelf space, if you were curious). By law, this library receives a copy of every book that’s printed within Finland. (They also have most books written by Finns, about Finns, or in Finnish.) Most of these books are stored underground (Finns love to bury things inside rocks).

It was designed in the 1840s by C. L. Engel. Entry is free, and it’s conveniently located right across the street from Helsinki Cathedral… which was also designed by Engel.

Before heading into the library, you’ll be asked to remove your coat (there are free lockers and lots of places to leave things).

It’s a really beautiful space.

Okay, I have questions: did someone arrange these books this way on purpose?? Does it mean something else in Finnish?

Here’s the perspective from the ground level…

And looking down from the first level.

I do love a good cupola!

This is the view (if you look up) when you walk into the main stacks section Wow, huh?!

This is perhaps the loveliest stacks section I’ve ever seen?

I made myself at home for a while; I’d brought a notebook with me and found a quiet place to do some planning and brainstorming.

After I felt like I’d put everything down on paper that was rattling around in my brain, I headed to another library, one block over.

The University of Helsinki Library has a very different vibe.

Not going to lie, I think there’s an *ahem* anatomical quirk that’s not so subtle!

It’s lovely and open and bright and inviting. MOVING ON.

It looked like a really awesome place to do schoolwork and was filled with students.

Again, I found a place tucked away. This time I pulled out my Kobo and enjoyed finishing a book (Raising Hare by Chloe Dalton), with a great view of Helsinki Cathedral!