Biblioteca Publica de Gerona Carles Rahola (Carles Rahola Public Library), Girona

Welcome to the Carles Rahola Public Library, a luminous cultural landmark in the heart of Girona that delights both book lovers and architecture admirers alike. Opened on December 23, 2014, with its official inauguration following on January 13, 2015, this library stands as the largest public library in Catalonia, encompassing over 7,055 square meters of useful space and serving as both a regional and urban central library, responsible for the legal deposit of printed works in the Girona region.

Architecturally, the library is a striking cube-shaped building by Corea, Moran & Guerrico. Its façade is made of translucent U-glass, allowing daylight to softly filter into the interior, and at night, the building transforms into a glowing lantern-a symbolic beacon of knowledge. Inside, spaces are arranged around three courtyards and connected by a generous and inviting staircase, with a children's library, exhibition areas, an auditorium, and a café on the ground floor, while the upper levels host reading rooms, the mediateca, local heritage collections, and specialized study zones.

The library’s rich collection includes hundreds of thousands of items: in 2024, there were approximately 223,576 volumes, including 196,461 books, 37,100 periodicals, 10,396 audiovisuals, and other materials such as engravings and postcards. Of these, nearly 19,446 are part of the old or heritage collection.

For visitors, the Carles Rahola Public Library offers much more than books-it’s a cultural hub. Relax in bright reading rooms, admire its modern architecture, explore rotating exhibitions, or participate in community events. Situated centrally, it's easily accessible on foot from major city attractions and offers a peaceful, enriching break from Girona’s lively streets.

In short, this library is a perfect blend of form, function, and cultural legacy-an essential stop for tourists seeking both quiet reflection and a deeper appreciation of Girona’s vibrant literary life.