The central library of Bologna was established in the Palazzo d’Accursio in 2001. The foyer/exhibition space is airy and light inviting you in. It’s a beautiful example of integrating modern public services with a historic building. To the left as you walk in beneath the first floor balcony is a bright, colourful and cheerful children’s library. Straight ahead you find the library information desk and beyond that the library space itself. The library collection itself encompasses approximately 300,000 books(70,000 of those being books for children and YA) and about 18,000 DVDs among other things. The floor of the main exhibition space/lobby is covered in transparent tiles allowing you to see down to excavations of ruins below. A donation allows access to the walkways through this area. All in all a place definitely worth visiting.
Alex S.
Place rating: 4 London, United Kingdom
This was the first stop in our self-guided Bologna Tour and I have to say, it was a nice introduction to the city. The Salaborsa is a library in the heart of in the Palazzo d’Accursio. It’s filled with useful information and friendly people. When you step in though, look down. Yes, there’s a giant archaeological dig going on beneath your feet for the old buildings of the city. Cross the lobby and find the double doors that lead down. There they ask for a «required donation» of whatever you want to give and then you walk through. You learn the history of the building, what it was used for previously(basketball games!) and are able to walk on scafolding to see what they’ve uncovered. Very cool. A near first stop in Bologna if you have the time or are interested!