The Library as Civic Platform

19:00 - 19:30

La Centrale, Nuvola Lavazza

The world’s most beautiful library, told by who bring it to life every day. Not a static place, but a space for cultural creation.

Oodi Helsinki Central Library, inaugurated in December 2018 and designed by ALA Architects, redefines the modern library as a “living room” in the heart of Helsinki.

The three-story, nearly zero‑energy building features a wood‑clad façade and glass‑steel arches, deliberately oriented across from Parliament to symbolize civic democracy. Each floor offers a unique atmosphere: a lively ground floor with a café, cinema, and event spaces; a resourceful second floor with makerspaces, recording and gaming studios, and workshops; and a serene top floor nicknamed “Book Heaven” with panoramic city views. 100,000 books, reading nooks, a children’s area, and a public balcony. Also, Oodi became a space for cultural production with podcast and audio-visual recording studios.

Awarded “Public Library of the Year 2019” by IFLA, Oodi exemplifies a future-oriented cultural hub blending architecture, community, and technology.

Helsinki

Robert Seitovirta Head of Unit Media Culture

Oodi Helsinki Central Library

Robert Seitovirta is Head of the Media Culture Unit at Helsinki Central Library Oodi, offering a wide range of digital services to support media literacy and creative storytelling. He collaborates closely with librarians, designers, and technologists to curate exhibitions, media literacy initiatives, and events that engage diverse audiences in creative and cultural activities.

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