Biblioteca Virgilio Barco Bogotá
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Biblioteca Virgilio Barco Bogotá

4.8
·4k reviews·Bogotá, Colombia

A circular architectural marvel by Rogelio Salmona, offering a peaceful haven for books, study, and community events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wednesday afternoons

Film showings at 3 PM

CrowdMedium
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Biblioteca Virgilio Barco Bogotá

Biblioteca Virgilio Barco Bogotá

Best Time

Wednesday afternoons

Film showings at 3 PM

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A circular architectural marvel by Rogelio Salmona, offering a peaceful haven for books, study, and community events.

4.8
(4k reviews)

"A stunning library and a perfect place to stay focused and get work done."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bag Check Required

Remember to check your bag into a locker upon entry. :key:

Explore the Grounds

Don't miss the water features and the cycle path around the library. :bike:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rogelio Salmona's Architectural Gem

Rogelio Salmona's Architectural Gem

A stunning, circular building blending nature and construction. A true Bogotá landmark.

Peaceful Reading Ambiance

Peaceful Reading Ambiance

Find your favorite books in a quiet, beautiful setting, perfect for focus and inspiration.

Surrounding Cycle Path

Surrounding Cycle Path

Enjoy a leisurely bike ride or a brisk training session with charming landscapes.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Architecture

Designed by Rogelio Salmona, this circular library is a masterpiece. Plan to spend time admiring its unique structure and the surrounding water features. It's a peaceful escape from city noise.

Check Activity Schedules

While a great place to read, the library also hosts events. Check their schedule for film showings, kids' activities, and dance performances to make the most of your visit.

Best Times

When
Wednesday afternoons
Why
Film showings at 3 PM
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Family activities available
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter for focused study
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Mejores lugares para estudiar abiertos a todo público

Bag Check Required

Remember to check your bag into a locker upon entry. :key:

Explore the Grounds

Don't miss the water features and the cycle path around the library. :bike:

reddit.com

Dónde ir de manera gratuita o muy económica solo en Bogotá. Parques ?

Check Event Schedules

Look for film showings, kids' activities, and dance performances. :calendar:

Study Spot Inspiration

A perfect place to stay focused and get work done. :computer:

Tips

from all over the internet

Bag Check Required

Remember to check your bag into a locker upon entry. :key:

Explore the Grounds

Don't miss the water features and the cycle path around the library. :bike:

Check Event Schedules

Look for film showings, kids' activities, and dance performances. :calendar:

Study Spot Inspiration

A perfect place to stay focused and get work done. :computer:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Biblioteca Virgilio Barco for its stunning, unique architecture by Rogelio Salmona and its peaceful ambiance, making it an inspiring place to read or study. The surrounding grounds and water features add to its charm. However, some note that interior lighting could be improved and that there are fewer activities than in the past.

"Unusual building that houses a free public library. Lovely space with a cafe, exhibitions, a Wednesday film showing at 3pm and activities for kids. Check your bag into a locker as you enter. Welcoming space and an unusual building to spend some time away from the city noise. Great surroundings too with water features."

Ruth McAllister Kemp

"This library is an excellent place to find and read your favorite books, surrounded by a peaceful, quiet and beautiful ambient. There you can find activities for everyone, since the youngsters members of the family to the oldest, in different schedules, including performances of dance groups and others. Sometimes, there festivals are celebrated. The building combine in a wonderful way nature with the man made construction, wich was designed by Rogelio Salmona, one of the most important architects in Latin America. Around the entire lot there is a cycle path where you can ride your bike slowly and enjoy the charming landscape or train hard trying to do your best time and challenge another cyclists"

Juan Mateus

"Should have a better illumination inside the library. It is gloomy and kinda dark when clock reaches 5:30pm.
Nowadays there are less activities than before. Most of the specialised rooms are closed and not open to general public! On Saturdays it should be full of activities..!"

Andrés

What People Like

Unique architecture
Peaceful ambiance
Inspiring study space

What People Dislike

Interior lighting
Fewer activities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The library is accessible by public transport. Several TransMilenio bus routes stop nearby. You can also reach it by taxi or ride-sharing services. Consider using a navigation app for real-time routes and traffic updates.

Information on dedicated parking is limited, but it's advisable to check local parking options or consider public transport to avoid any inconvenience.

Yes, the library is surrounded by a cycle path, making it very accessible for cyclists. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery on your way.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Biblioteca Virgilio Barco is a free public library, welcoming everyone to enjoy its resources and spaces. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially on weekends. It's recommended to check the official library website or social media for the most current hours before your visit. Some specialized rooms might have different access times.

You do not need a library card to enter and enjoy the public spaces, cafe, or exhibitions. However, to borrow books, you will likely need to register for a library card.

Visitors are required to check their bags into lockers upon entry. This is a common practice in libraries to ensure the security of the collection and the premises.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can read books, study, attend exhibitions, enjoy the cafe, and participate in various activities for all ages, including film showings and dance performances. Reddit

Yes, many visitors find it an inspiring and peaceful place to stay focused and get work done. Reddit

Absolutely! The library often hosts activities specifically designed for younger visitors. Reddit

The library is famous for its unique, circular design by renowned architect Rogelio Salmona, blending modern construction with natural elements and water features.

Yes, the peaceful ambiance, beautiful surroundings, and unique architecture make it a great spot to unwind and escape the city's hustle.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe within the library where you can grab a coffee or a snack while you read or study.

While there's a cafe, it's generally best to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas or outside the library premises to maintain the quiet and clean environment.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography in quiet study areas. Check for any specific signage regarding photography.

The exterior architecture, especially the circular design and water features, offers great photo opportunities. The interior spaces, with their unique lighting and design, can also be very photogenic.

Professional photoshoots may require special permission or fees. It's best to contact the library administration in advance to inquire about their policy on professional photography.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Biblioteca Virgilio Barco is a fantastic destination for families. The library often features dedicated activities for children, making it an engaging and educational outing. Reddit The peaceful ambiance and beautiful surroundings also provide a pleasant environment for a family outing. Remember to check the schedule for specific children's programming to maximize your visit. The surrounding cycle path is also a great way for families to enjoy some outdoor activity together.

📚 Students and Researchers

For those seeking a quiet and inspiring place to study or work, Biblioteca Virgilio Barco is an excellent choice. Its unique architecture and peaceful atmosphere are often cited as conducive to focus and productivity. Reddit While some visitors have mentioned that the lighting could be better in the evenings, the overall environment is highly regarded by students and researchers looking for a dedicated space away from city distractions.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Marvel of Rogelio Salmona

Biblioteca Virgilio Barco is not just a library; it's a testament to the genius of Colombian architect Rogelio Salmona. His signature style, characterized by the use of brick, circular forms, and integration with nature, is on full display here. The building's unique, three-story circular design creates a sense of flow and openness, drawing visitors into its embrace. The careful placement of water features and lush greenery surrounding the library further enhances its tranquil atmosphere, making it a harmonious blend of man-made structure and natural beauty. Reddit

Salmona's work often aimed to create spaces that were both functional and aesthetically inspiring, and Biblioteca Virgilio Barco is a prime example. The interior spaces are designed to be conducive to reading and study, with thoughtful use of natural light. However, some visitors have noted that the illumination inside could be improved, especially as daylight fades, making it feel a bit gloomy after 5:30 PM. Despite this, the overall architectural experience is a significant draw for many visitors. Reddit

A Hub for Community and Culture

Beyond its role as a repository of books, Biblioteca Virgilio Barco serves as a vibrant community center. The library regularly hosts a variety of events and activities catering to diverse interests and age groups. These can include film screenings, workshops, exhibitions, and performances by dance groups, offering a rich cultural experience for visitors. Reddit

While some reviews suggest a decrease in the number of activities compared to the past, and that specialized rooms may be closed to the general public, the library still aims to be a place for learning and engagement. Checking the library's schedule in advance is highly recommended to catch any ongoing events or special programs. The surrounding cycle path also adds to the recreational appeal, allowing visitors to enjoy the charming landscape or engage in physical activity. Reddit

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