In Daejeon, a significant development in library expansion has taken place with the opening of the new Dongdaejeon Library, marking the first significant enhancement of the city’s reading culture in 35 years. The city announced on the 7th that the Dongdaejeon Library, which is the second municipal library, is set to open on May 1st.
The library is located at the former Ga-yang Library site in Gayeong-dong, encompassing an area of 5,358 square meters. Construction began in March 2023, and the building, with a total floor area of 7,354 square meters across three floors above ground and one below, was completed in October of the previous year. Currently, final touches are being made to the interior spaces.
This new library aims to bridge cultural gaps between regions and provide all citizens with easy access to books and cultural activities. As the first municipal library to open in 35 years since the Hanbat Library in 1989, it is expected to become a key cultural site for East and Daedeok districts.
Dongdaejeon Library is a specialized library for children and teenagers, offering unique spaces and programs different from traditional public libraries. It features age-appropriate reading and experience zones, designed to create a more enjoyable reading environment while promoting intergenerational integration through natural spatial layouts.
The largest area on the first floor is dedicated to children, followed by a reading and creativity space for teenagers on the second floor, and a comprehensive resource room accessible to all citizens on the third floor. The library also serves as a community park connecting neighborhoods historically divided by slopes and fences, featuring creative and experiential spaces for children and teenagers, and communication and sharing spaces for all.
The library houses three resource rooms, four experiential rooms, and eight shared spaces, reflecting the diverse cultural needs of local residents and citizens. It is well-stocked with 30,000 books and is preparing to offer digital and electronic resources as well as VOD services.
Moreover, a digital library environment will be established through the creation of a library information system, along with the implementation of ICT and RFID systems to improve the efficiency of book lending and returns.
Striving to be an engaging and vibrant “stay-type library,” Dongdaejeon Library aims to be fun and intriguing for children, a haven for teenagers, and a place of wisdom and relaxation for adults. The library plans to run a variety of reading programs, author meet-and-greets, exhibitions, performances, and creative programs to become a library that enhances citizens’ daily lives with happiness.