Wooden shelves, modern walls and/or walls full of history, with thousands of books, fill Porto‘s libraries with magic. At a time when digital dominates, it feels good to ‘go back to the source’ and be closer to paper, leafing through pages and pages without end.
However, even if your goal isn’t exactly to ‘devour’ books, a trip to the library is always a good idea. Whether it’s to study for exams, or in the case of remote workers to catch up on work, these places all have one thing in common: maximum tranquillity. Let’s go?
Porto Municipal Public Library
We couldn’t talk about libraries without mentioning, of course, the Municipal Public Library of Porto. Classified as a building of public interest since the 1970s, it has been housed since the 19th century in the former Convent of Santo António da Cidade, opposite the São Lázaro Garden.
So, as well as its importance in the world of literature, this place is also steeped in history. Its collection includes legacies and works of great value, including some manuscripts and books:
- The Hand Bookshop of Santa Cruz de Coimbra;
- The collection of old maps and plans;
- Collections of correspondence and manuscripts belonging to various writers and personalities;
- A collection of musical manuscripts, among many others.
When you enter the Municipal Public Library of Porto, you’ll not only find a great place to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, but also the opportunity to travel back in time. Special mention should be made of the Patio and the beautiful tiles that adorn the space.
Where: Rua de Dom João IV 2
Opening hours: Monday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7.30 p.m.
Almeida Garrett Municipal Library
Inaugurated in 2001 and known as the ‘library of the Crystal Palace‘, the Almeida Garrett is one of the best public spaces in Porto for studying, working and/or simply catching up on your reading.
Popular with the city’s students, especially due to its privileged location, this library is easily accessible due to its proximity to various public transport links.
With a large collection, the Almeida Garrett Municipal Library is excellent for spending hours on end inside. It also has free Wi-Fi access and several plugs to connect computers at will.
Where: Palácio de Cristal Gardens, Rua Dom Manuel II
Opening hours: Monday, from 14h00 to 21h00; and Tuesday to Saturday, from 10h00 to 21h00.
Serralves Foundation Library
The Serralves Park and Foundation need no introduction. After all, it’s one of the best green spaces in the city and, at the same time, one of the nerve centers of contemporary art. But there’s also a library around here.
In the Serralves Foundation Library, housed in the Museum building, you’ll find the perfect place for study and reading activities, combined with brief moments of relaxation. Outside, you have the ideal setting for breathing fresh air.
This space also has another highlight, namely the impressive installation by the artist Tobias Rehberger, made up of more than 70 lamps. A work adapted to this location, which serves as a source of inspiration for all those looking for inspiration.
Where: Rua Dom João de Castro, 210
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Pedro Ivo Popular Library
Open since June 2023, this suggestion is aimed more at a children’s audience. In all, there are around a thousand books available for consultation and home loan, including works from various genres and areas of knowledge, such as social sciences, among others.
The library also has a space to pay homage to its patron, with the aim of promoting books by Pedro Ivo, the pseudonym of Carlos Lopes, a writer born in Porto.
There you can access the Internet for free and, for those who are not yet users of the Municipal Libraries, you can sign up here.
Where: <shortcode data-tag=”trackLink” 0=”link_url=”https://portosecreto.co/praca-do-marques/”</b>”>Praça do Marquês de Pombal
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
What other libraries would you like to recommend?