Library in Tuchów

A Futuristic-Style Expansion

The Public Library in Tuchów has undergone a renovation and expansion that has given it a completely new look, fully aligned with the latest global standards in librarianship. From the outset, Director Bożena Wrona placed great emphasis on creating a space that combines functionality with an inspiring character, while also meeting the needs of modern users. Although the library has remained in its original location after the rebuild, it has gained a new wing that almost doubles its usable area. The interior design concept incorporates the idea of a “third place”—a meeting, development, and relaxation space for the local community, where visitors can immerse themselves in the world of literature and culture.

The new wing draws attention with the ascetic aesthetic of its ground floor, which uses only two colors: black and white. On this level, one finds restrooms, circulation areas, a staircase with an elevator, and a multifunctional room featuring an art gallery designed for local artists. This room hosts a variety of cultural events—from exhibitions and author talks to workshops and training sessions, as well as activities organized with library users in mind.

A minimalist staircase leads to the first floor, where the book display areas are located. The first area visitors encounter is divided into sections for children and teenagers, highlighted by pastel colors and slanted bookcases that add a sense of lightness and dynamism. The interior design has been carefully thought out to encourage the discovery of literature in comfortable, youth-friendly surroundings.

Next to the children’s and teens’ zone is a modern multimedia room whose layout can be freely adapted to users’ needs. Lightweight, mobile desks allow for the rapid transformation of individual workstations into a large conference table, making group activities possible. This room is also equipped with a VR station and a 3D printer, giving users access to state-of-the-art technologies. Walls finished with slats ensure optimal acoustics, effectively containing and dampening sound.

In the library’s older section, designed in an L-shaped layout, there is a book display area for adults. One of the design challenges was to move away from the typical arrangement of shelves, which are usually standard constructions with horizontal surfaces and vertical dividers. Instead, the design breaks convention with geometric, dynamic layouts, enriched by seating elements shaped like “tunnels” that cut through the comb-like rows of shelves. This arrangement creates an interesting, multidimensional perspective, inviting visitors to explore the space.

In the second wing of the book display area, a comb-like layout is also used. However, this time, special recesses with a dual function were added between the shelves. Each recess serves both as seating for reading and a workspace—thanks to mobile components, users can transform them into fully functional workstations. Additional lighting in these areas ensures comfort, even during extended reading or work sessions.

Other noteworthy features include large window sills that function as seating areas, a press-reading corner, and a space for seniors, where a green wall—a vertical garden—brings a touch of nature indoors. Main lighting is provided by an illuminated stretch ceiling, while irregularly arranged geometric lamps lend the interior a futuristic feel. The white microcement floor is like a blank page, emphasizing the modern, minimalist style and underscoring the vision of a space that serves readers and the entire local community alike.

The new library in Tuchów is much more than just a space for storing and lending books—it is a contemporary cultural institution that brings people together and inspires the shared discovery of knowledge in a modern, welcoming environment. Thanks to bold architectural solutions, the space has taken on a distinctly futuristic character. The ascetic color scheme and minimalist forms convey a sense of calm and order, while simultaneously surprising visitors with daring, dynamic details that give it an extraordinary appearance. Geometric lamps, the illuminated stretch ceiling, and the white microcement flooring create a nearly otherworldly effect—users can feel as though they have stepped beyond the traditional concept of what a library can be.

This futuristic library is not merely a collection of books and educational resources, but also a place that meets the needs of the modern user. Equipped with multimedia areas, a VR space, and 3D printing stations, the library becomes an interactive environment conducive to learning and innovation. Thanks to carefully designed zones, every age group—from children and teenagers to seniors—can find a place for themselves here. The alcoves and comfortable seats built into the shelves encourage individual work and relaxation with a book, while open, multifunctional areas allow for meetings, workshops, and events that further enliven the space.

The Tuchów Library was designed to be completely free of architectural barriers, making it friendly and accessible to people with disabilities. The elevator, convenient circulation, and ergonomic workstations ensure that every user can enjoy the library’s offerings in comfort.

The new library in Tuchów is not just a place for accessing literature; it is also a space that inspires and engages, fostering an environment open to the future—where every element of architecture contributes to a distinctive atmosphere that is ideal for development, gatherings, and cultural exploration.

Name of the project: Public Library in Tuchów
Investor: Public Library in Tuchów
Lead designer: Grzegorz Kłoda
Designer: Justyna Baran
Area:  500m²
Completion: 2024 r.
Photographs: Wojciech Januszewski, Tutek Media
Scope: Interior design including author supervision