Deichman Bjørvika Oslo

Oslo's new main library

Eva from Oslo

""Deichman Bjørvika" is Oslo's new main library. It's impressive both on the inside & outside; much more than just storage for books - fantastic views, too."

More than a million books, movies, games, CDs and other media finally got a fancy new home. It stands side by side with Oslo's best-known landmark, the Opera house, with a view over the fjord, and just a few steps from the central station. The first impressions might suggest it is trying (too) hard to steal some of the attention, with its cantilevered roof and modern - many argue too cold and corporate - facade.

But let's focus on the core, its interior, the atmosphere and the library as an institution. It feels welcoming, inclusive and dynamic, where different zones and departments attach to an open room in the centre filled with skylight. I believe modern libraries should be much more than storage for books: they should ignite a love for knowledge and learning, offer a safe and calm environment for work and mental exercise, and above all create a place where one can just be. Deichman Bjørvika succeeds in this aim and it has something for everyone. There are cool and fun nooks and play areas hiding in the children's department and it is our family's favourite new afternoon activity when Oslo serves bad weather.

If you just want to sit and relax, continue to the top floor where you will find a spacious lounge area with a magnificent view over the Opera and the fjord behind it - city exploring break really cannot get any better than that.

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Oslo Spotter Eva

About me I grew up on the sunny side of the Alps, in Slovenia, and my interest in wooden architecture took me to Norway during my studies. As you can see, I never left and I am happy and proud to call the North my home now. I work as an architect, but my creative brain always engages with numerous other fun projects on the side: I have a small design brand called Leva, organize pop-up foodie events with friends or develop ideas in Ohøy design collective. My biggest playground, however, is nature, and there is plenty of it in Norway. I love the great outdoors and I try to ded...

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Oct 6, 2025

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