Dewan Bahasa

The library in Dutch is called bibliotheek. There are altogether 19 libraries in the city of The Hague, a city of nearly half a million people. We went to check out the biggest one which is right at the end of the main shopping street (the Spui) in the City Centre. This striking white building in the photo is the Hague Central Library. The building is part of the City Hall/Library complex, designed by an American architect.

The library is very functional in attracting both young and old – it is quite a lively place. There are about 600 individual study places spread over the entire 6 floors served by escalators and elevators. Membership is free up to 18 years old. Above 18 years it ranges from € 19,50 to € 27,35 per annum.

We saw about 10 aisles in the English novel books section alone. There are rows of other foreign language books such as Arabic and so on. What is interesting is that the library also lend out PS2 play stations games, DVDs, videos and music. The library is also well served with its own food and drink section. I wish we also have similar library back home!