Rikhardinkatu library

The library building, representing the Renaissance Revival architecture, was designed by Finnish architect Theodor Höijer and was built in 1881 as the first building in the Nordic countries designed as a general library.

[1] Later, in the 1920s, an additional floor designed by architect Runar Eklund and a wing building known as the book tower were added to the inner courtyard.

The renovation, planned by professor Olof Hansson, sought to return the building's original style.

The second phase of the renovation was completed in 2003, when the new Internet room and the salon of the reading hall were taken into use.

[1] The library premises have also hosted the Art Association of Finland and the Finnish Society of Sciences and Letters.