Yellamundie library among the world’s most beautiful as finalists for annual award revealed

Jakob Lærkes, chairman of the jury panel and head of libraries in the Municipality of Gladsaxe, Denmark, expressed his enthusiasm for the diversity among this year’s nominees, stating:

“The Public Library of the Year award is all about honoring role models, and each of the four nominated libraries stands out as a library of the future. It is inspiring to witness the varied responses to evolving user needs, the growing emphasis on sustainability in library design, and the innovative ways in which communities are welcomed into reading and learning spaces. The jury and I believe that these four libraries set a valuable example for others to follow.”

Yellamundie acts as a vital community hub, fostering curiosity and engagement through its seamless visual connection to diverse spaces and activities. These include areas for storytelling, cultural celebrations, multilingual collections, youth and family programs, and local heritage research. The library’s immediate impact is reflected in its job readiness and entrepreneurial initiatives, homework support for children, welcoming spaces for community programs, and safe environments for youth after school. In a time of global challenges, Yellamundie exemplifies how multicultural societies can thrive. By blending tradition with innovative, community-centered programming, it redefines the role of libraries, ensuring they remain essential for generations to come.

This well-deserved recognition belongs to our dedicated team at fjcstudio, whose aspirations, passion, and hard work have come to life in this project. The reactions from children, parents, and elders—who have found new ways to connect with community and family, prospering in learning and knowledge sharing—are truly heartwarming. We extend our deepest thanks to Liverpool City Council and Built for their ongoing collaboration and commitment to amplifying voices, fostering education, and enriching the community.