Turku Main Library, Turku

The Turku Main Library is a central institution within the Turku City Library system, serving as a crucial part of the municipal library services in Turku. Located in the VI District, right in the heart of the city, the library operates not only as a local resource but also as a hub for several branch libraries and two mobile libraries. These services are integrated into the larger Vaski library network, a collaborative effort among 18 public libraries across the Southwest Finland region.

The library’s roots date back to the 1860s, starting as two separate private libraries serving different social groups. In 1912, these libraries merged under city control, laying the foundation for what would become one of Finland's largest public libraries. Since 2018, the Turku Main Library has held regional development responsibilities, contributing to the advancement of library services across the area. Throughout its history, the library has expanded significantly, thanks in part to the generosity of Fredric von Rettig, who donated both a building and an extensive collection.

The library is home to several pieces of art, making it not only a space for books but also a cultural landmark. Among the artworks are Initial Letter (Alkukirjain ) by Saara Ekstrom, which adorns the main hall, and her video work The Alphabet (Aakkoset) at the Reading Corner. Other pieces include Visual Vortex – Passage of Events by Hans-Christian Berg at the main entrance, Vestigia by Hilkka Kononen at the News Square, and Moment (Hetkinen) by Ann Sundholm in the main hall. Additionally, Merja Pitkanen’s sculpture installation Occurrence (Esiintyma ) can be found at the library's café, Sirius. These artworks are part of the Waino Aaltonen Museum of Art collection for the City of Turku.

In 2007, the library underwent a significant transformation with the addition of a new modern building, designed by JKMM Architects. This modern structure is connected to the original 1903 building via a corridor, blending historic and contemporary architectural elements. Today, the Turku Main Library offers a wide array of services under one roof, including specialized departments for music, children's literature, and general reading, along with meeting rooms and a cozy café.