East of Central Station, there’s the new artificial island Oosterdok, built around 2005. The whole area is a nice example of modern architecture and one of its most beautiful exponents is OBA, the public library. As a lover of literature, I often come here to borrow the latest publications or classics- novels, fantasy, thrillers, science, everything… The collection is rich in Dutch and English, other languages are not really worth mentioning and you have to be an Amsterdam citizen to get the membership…

But there’s another great thing to this library: in the basement, I often just grab my favourite international newspaper or magazine, order a coffee and sit down in a comfortable fauteuil… no membership needed for that. Here you’ll find quiet people focused on their own reading, no background music or other noises — a lovely oasis for a moment of peace! I also recommend lunch on the top floor with a stunning view of the center!