“Quiet, please!” resonates in my mind as we approach the Masago Central Library. This isn’t just any library. It is a haven for research and quiet contemplation in bustling Tokyo.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Central Library’s story began long before this building even existed. Its predecessor was the Tokyo Municipal Hibiya Library. It opened its doors to the public in 1908. The Central Library emerged in 1973 as the main branch. It carried on the tradition of learning and exploration.
Inside the Masago Central Library, you will find over 2.25 million books. There are also over 6,000 magazines and journals. Audio-visual materials enrich the collection. Rare treasures like Ukiyo-e and Edo Castle architectural drawings are also preserved here. This library boasts one of the best foreign language collections among Tokyo’s public libraries. About one-tenth of its holdings are in languages other than Japanese.
Imagine yourself wandering through the open shelves. Around 350,000 volumes are readily accessible. You can explore subjects from business and law to health and medicine. There are also specialized sections on Tokyo and other cities. Current newspapers and reduced-size editions are available for browsing. You can take these materials to any floor. Find a cozy corner for reading.
For materials not on open shelves, the Masago Central Library provides access to its closed stacks. About 1.9 million books reside there. To access these treasures, use the library’s online catalog. Request items from the library’s computers. Once ready, your reader’s card number will appear on electronic bulletin boards. You can then retrieve your requested materials.
Need to photocopy something? The Masago Central Library offers photocopying services. Coin-operated copiers are available for open-shelf materials and recent magazines. Staff-assisted copying is also available. Just remember, copyright laws apply. Only a portion of a work can be copied. Multiple copies are not allowed. Current newspapers and magazines cannot be photocopied.
The Masago Central Library also caters to the modern researcher. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building. You can use your own laptop at any of the 900 seats. About 300 seats have power outlets.
So, the Masago Central Library is more than just a repository of books. It is a dynamic space for research, learning, and quiet reflection. Its rich history and commitment to providing resources make it a vital part of Tokyo’s intellectual landscape.