Kaohsiung Main Public Library, Kaohsiung

The Kaohsiung Main Public Library stands as a symbol of innovation and sustainability in the heart of the Asia New Bay Area. Opened in 2014 to replace the outdated 1981 Minsheng Road facility, this modern library was designed by Taiwanese architect Ricky Liu in collaboration with Toyo Ito’s team from Japan. Located opposite the 85 Sky Tower, it spans eight stories and 38,000 square meters, making it the largest library in southern Taiwan. Its most notable architectural feature is its column-free interior, a world-first for green buildings of its size, allowing for open, flexible floor plans and uninterrupted space.

Emphasizing eco-friendly design, the library incorporates wide green ledges, a rooftop garden, and trees growing through its central voids, creating a microclimate that cools the structure naturally. Visitors will find a mix of quiet reading corners, multimedia areas, study zones, a theater, and even a shopping area. The library is not only a hub for research and education but also a cultural gathering place. The first floor’s semi-open layout and rooftop garden with harbor views add to the inviting, relaxed atmosphere, while a “thanksgiving tree” symbolizes the city’s communal spirit and support for public learning.

Beyond its function as a library, the building offers shaded courtyards, playgrounds, and multipurpose event spaces, blending nature and urban life. It’s accessible from multiple directions-through a garden, a sloping plaza, and a street-level entrance-ensuring easy public access.