Central Public Library

1st illustrated children's book was Orbis Pictus, by Johan Amos Comenius, published in 1658. NLB has a facsimile copy under Reference Closed Access section ;-) Source & image: Wikipedia

Did u know? World's 1st novel , The Tale of Genji (源氏物語 Genji monogatari), was written ard the year 1000 by Japanese noblewoman Murasaki Shikibu. NLB stocks >10 copies. Source & image: Wikipedia

Study/reading areas are at level B1 can be reserved online. Not the most comfortable chairs , but all spots come with an electrical point. Nice view of greenery too

At Lee Kong Chian Reference Library levels 7-9, there are study tables aplenty. All kinds of config, most with electrical outlets . Available on first-come-first-served basis

At level 5, there’s The Courtyard , an open air space with some benches . No fans though, so it can get hot & humid

Intend to study/research here? Consider reserving a seat. No charge but max duration per booking 4hrs. Login at www.nlb.gov.sg/seatbooking. For a better chance, check available seats in all areas

Nice design for librarians and book lovers. It is interesting how it will manage thru the disruption of publishing industry.

Memories Corner at level B1. Retelling the history of the National Library

Central public library is the lending library within the national library building, ie the only place where u can borrow stuff. The items on the upper floors are for reference only.

Connect with the library on Facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/CentralPL meet the staff , get reading recommendations, programme highlights n more!

Excellent fiction collection here.

The 11th floor is a perfect mugging venue.

Very small ah. I don't like to come here to read how people sleep and talk on their mobiles.

The Bamboo Garden is now open to the public.

nice place to kill the time

Lending library is in B1

This library has the largest collection of overseas newspapers.

You can never be early enough to get a seat and a table! Happy studying :)

This library has the largest English fiction collection .

Borrow double the amount of stuff till end jan 2011!