The Alajärvi City Library is the final design project of the architectural office Aalto & Co.

The library was completed in 1991, with Heikki Tarkka as the chief architect.

Alvar Aalto’s wife, Elissa Aalto, also took part in the design work; she completed several buildings left unfinished by Aalto. In 1966, Alvar Aalto created a civic center plan for Alajärvi, and the library’s plans are based on its site plan and architectural model.

The library’s minimalist white style reflects the other buildings of Alajärvi’s Aalto Centre, such as the Town Hall and the Parish Hall. The Aalto Centre consists of several Aalto buildings located within a short walking distance of each other.

The most striking feature of the library’s design is the undulating wooden ceiling panel. The varying shades of wood, the wave-like lines, and the spaciousness of the main hall create an organic, nature-inspired impression.

In addition to library services, the building also hosts temporary art exhibitions.

Address:

Kirkkotie 7

62900 Alajärvi

Loans and information:

Phone: 040 610 1900

Email: kirjasto@alajarvi.fi

Opening hours:

Mon 12–19

Tue 12–19

Wed 10–16

Thu 12–19

Fri 10–16

On the eves of public holidays: 10–16

Self-service hours every day: 7–21

Guided tours of the Aalto Centre

Bookings and inquiries: opastukset@alajarvi.fi

or phone 040 775 8077

This site is part of the Kraatterijärvi UNESCO Global Geopark

www.kraatterijarvigeopark.fi