Located in the heart of the historic La Candelaria neighbourhood, which is dominated mainly by colonial architecture, the Luis Ángel Arango Library stands out with its bold, modern design. This impressive site is both a library and a cultural centre, combining old and new with serious vim. At the Luis Ángel Arango Library you are able to see an exhibition of modern art, attend a concert of classical music or jazz, and get lost in a truly vast assortment of books – or get lost in just the one book.
The library’s 12 reading rooms are home to one of Latin America’s largest collections of books. Among the library’s collection, which includes over one million volumes, you will find works on every topic from science to music, from languages to economics. There are also sections dedicated to maps and rare manuscripts, along with a set of displays about Colombia’s social and economic history. Head to the Casa Republicana gallery to see exhibitions of art and photography.
Try to catch a concert at the library’s 367-seat Sala de Conciertos (Concert Hall), which is known for its fabulous acoustics. The hall is known to host all kinds of concerts, featuring both national and international artists in genres that range from classical and chamber music to jazz and folk. Tickets are available at the library’s front desk and online.
Take the elevator to the library’s top floor and you will be greeted with uninterrupted views of the city. Standing on the balcony, look around and appreciate the contrast in design between the modern library and the colonial-style buildings that surround it.
The Luis Ángel Arango Library is open every day of the week but it is closed on public holidays. Admission is free, and guided tours are offered for visitors. Check the library’s website for information about its facilities and services. The library, which is part of La Manzana Cultural (Cultural Square), is just a short walk from Plaza de Bolívar in historic central Bogotá. It is easily accessible by bus or subway and metered parking is available on-site.
