Four libraries have been shortlisted from a total of 16 submissions. They are:
Australia
The Green Square Library and Plaza provides the only open space in a densely populated area. An active field of library and plaza programming bridges the indoors and outdoors. The building is 100% naturally ventilated.
Netherlands
Bibliotheek LocHal’s aims to be a city living room. Large tapestries serve as flexible walls inside the building and tracks are left in the floor for giant community tables made from old railway pulleys. The six theme labs in the LocHal are all created and realised with local partners and citizens.
Finland
Oodi Helsinki Central Library is aligned with Finland’s Parliament and has been designed with city’s residents with a focus on the needs of its future users. The library has seen a massive number of users in its first months of service.
New Zealand
Turanga – Christchurch Central Library. After the great earthquake hit Christchurch in 2011, a user involvement process was undertaken for the new central library. The open centre invites visitors to move around and explore with beautiful use of materials and light. The library has a strong focus on both children and heritage.
The winner of the 2019 IFLA/Systematic Public Library of the Year will be announced during the IFLA World Library and Information Congress, which will take place on 27 August in Athens Greece.