“More than 16,000 stories reside within these walls,” the librarian whispered, her eyes twinkling. “Each waiting to be discovered.” We stood before the Městská knihovna v Praze – pobočka Hostivař, a modern haven for bookworms nestled in the heart of Prague. Don’t let its contemporary exterior fool you, this library holds a history as rich as the tales within its collection.
The Městská knihovna v Praze – pobočka Hostivař first opened its doors to the public back in 1910. It was a modest affair then, a “Čtenářská beseda” (Reading Room) run by the 19th and 20th Society, one of whom was a prominent Hostivař native, Antonín Švehla. By 1919, the library housed 520 volumes and welcomed eager readers two days a week. In 1921, it became a cherished branch of the Municipal Library of Prague. The journey to its modern form included a significant milestone in 2005 when it became automated.
Today, the Městská knihovna v Praze – pobočka Hostivař is a vibrant hub, boasting over 16,000 books. It’s a testament to the enduring power of the written word. A third of its collection is dedicated to captivating non-fiction, while the remaining two-thirds are a treasure trove of fiction. This carefully curated selection includes a wide range of popular titles for leisure reading. The library takes pride in its extensive children’s and young adult section. Filled with everything from fun, lighthearted reads to books needed for school, it sparks a love for reading in every young mind. They even offer 14 different magazine titles ranging from children’s favorites to more adult publications.
But the Městská knihovna v Praze – pobočka Hostivař is more than just a repository of books. It is a community space that hosts a variety of events. From book readings to workshops, there is something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in Prague, take a moment to step inside the Městská knihovna v Praze – pobočka Hostivař. You might just discover your next favorite story.