Central Public Library

Tracking on VICTORIA STREET on a bright Saturday morning brought us to the NATIONAL Library where we enjoyed a good breakfast at HANS located at the outdoor foyer of the NATIONAL Library. The National library is a good looking building with some trees popping out in the middle of the building; I guess a mid-sky garden there. It houses many levels of offices and study areas. I love the empty spaces they have, easy to move around with events being able to be conducted with ease be it outdoor or the indoor corridors or foyers. The high ceilings and sound proofing fixtures are great for a good quiet read. The general borrowing section being in the basement is decked with plush arm chairs for browsing and reading as well as newspaper reading tables which are tilted at an angle for easy reading. There are a good spread of computers for searching catalogues and the rows and rows of bookshelves neatly packed housing various books from various genre and authors. Read more at our Editorial Page

What can I say, this library is my favorite! ha.. even though I hardly borrow any books from the basement borrowing section there but it wins hands down in the ambience, the design, the scenery and the facilities that it offers in this gigantic 13 storey building which you call a library!!? unbelievable! ha..

I can say I was so thrilled when I heard news that Singapore is coming up with a new building to replace the old nostalgic Central Library we had years ago near the National Museum. Still, at a new location, with a fresh look, it still stands out among the buildings around it and attraction different people into it.

There's no cafe inside the library is a good thing but at least there's this Hanes cafe - right outside the library at the first level. An open space concept kind of cafe with beautiful greenery around offering the customers there a comfortable and peaceful feeling if its not crowded. :P I think there's one small cafe at the Drama center entrance if I remember correctly. But i supposed its not catered for the public or something. Do correct me if i'm wrong. ;)

Do venture around each level of the building, sometimes they might have some exhibitions around. There's one part of the building which I liked very much. The high white colored ceiling and full glass walls design giving you pretty much a full view of the city and pretty much of Singapore. This area gives you that spacious feeling so you won't feel so closed up if its all four walls and nothing else.

There is also this drama center where they hold musicals and plays at level 4. I can't remember which level the garden is at. But yes, there is a small garden in one of the levels. Talk about man made gardens..

For those book lovers or art lovers, this building is worth a look at if you have the time and bring along your cameras! :)