Libraries abroad: A free library under the open sky in Vienna

Free books are now available under the open sky: a so-called “open bookcase” has been installed in the capital of Austria. From now on every reader has a chance to take any book from the “bookcase” avoiding annoying formalities. In return, the reader should leave on its shelves any book from his private collection.

A so unusual project has been initiated by the native of Vienna – an art worker Frank Gassner. Earliar the same “libraries” were installed in Germany – Berlin, Bonn, Mainz, and in Austria - Graz. "All the open space in Vienna has been occupied by various commercial rubbish", - said Gassner during the opening of the “bookcase”. He claims that the project is in some way a response to this “city’s rubbish”.

This "bookcase" is located right on the pavement and is available around the clock. It contains three large shelves, which hold about 240 books. The newly arrived editions will be labeled, thus help the reader to choose the necessary book. An organization, which preferred to remain unknown, donated a considerable collection of books, among them - “Introduction into surfing” and “Ecological balance of Austria” in order to save the “library” from unnecessary literature from the very start.

The inclined design of the “bookcase” and two glass doors protect it from bad weather conditions. This remarkable library is reported to work until June, 11 2010.