Hello, on April 9th, I had the opportunity to run errands near the Khok Wua Intersection. I noticed that the Bangkok City Library was open, so I decided to inquire. I found out that it was an informal opening, mainly to test the systems. However, the library allowed the public to enter and take pictures. I took the opportunity to explore the place, and here is my perspective on this library.



As I understand it, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) established this library to provide residents of Bangkok with more access to quality reading materials. To achieve this goal, the BMA leased a beautiful building on Ratchadamnoen Klang Road, which reflects the historical essence of Thailand, and converted it into a large, four-story library. According to news reports, the 30-year lease for the building cost 600 million baht, and the renovation and furnishing costs totaled 296 million baht.



The official opening of the library is scheduled for April 28th. However, Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn will be present on that day. Therefore, officials recommend that the general public wishing to use the library's services should come on April 29th or later. The library's opening hours are as follows:



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Opening Hours: Tuesday - Saturday, 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM.

Sunday, 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

(Closed on Mondays and public holidays)



Personally, I disagree with the library's closure on public holidays. I believe these days offer a valuable opportunity for working adults and families to visit. However, as the policy has been established, we must comply for now. I hope the relevant authorities will reconsider this decision in the future.



The exact location of this place is at the Khok Wua Intersection on Ratchadamnoen Klang Road, near the Democracy Monument. I recommend getting here by bus or taxi only, as parking is very difficult to find. The bus lines that pass by are: 2, 2S, 15, 32, 33R, 35R, 44R, 47, 59, 60, 68, 70, 79, 82, 157R, 171R, 183R, 201R, 203, 503, 509, 511, 511S, 556.



Before entering this library, please allow me to clarify the following.


On April 9th, 2017, the day I visited, the system was still under testing. Therefore, some aspects may not have been functioning smoothly.

2. The official opening date is April 28, 2017, but it is recommended to visit on or after April 29. During this period, the library may conduct system tests periodically. However, I do not know the specific dates. If there is no urgent need to visit, it is recommended to wait until the official opening.

3. During my visit, the library permitted photography without flash. However, it is unclear whether this policy will remain in effect after the official opening.

4. If you find any inappropriate images in this thread, please let me know and I will remove them. I also ask that everyone refrain from criticizing the individuals in the images.



Let's open the door to the Bangkok City Library together. The first thing you'll see after pushing open the glass door is the information desk and another entrance to the actual library. Entering this door is easy and free. All you need is a smart card ID. Simply insert your ID card into the reader and press lightly, and the door will open.



Anyone who enters the library can read and use all the books and facilities, but they cannot borrow books. If you want to borrow books, you must first become a member. The membership fee is very affordable.



**Membership Fee: Adults 10 Baht/year (Book deposit 40 Baht)**

** Membership fee for children under 15 years old: 5 Baht/year (Book insurance fee: 20 Baht) **



The membership fee must be renewed annually, while the book insurance fee is a one-time payment. The book insurance fee is refundable upon resignation from the library membership, provided that all borrowed books have been returned.



Please note that large bags capable of holding books are strictly prohibited inside the library. Only small bags and wallets are permitted (including camera bags). Therefore, you must deposit your belongings in a locker and carry all necessary items with you. The lockers are new and in good condition. To use a locker, insert a 10-baht coin. The coin will be returned when you retrieve your belongings. However, there is a limited number of lockers available. If the lockers are full, you will need to leave your belongings on the floor and have them supervised by staff. Therefore, it is not recommended to bring expensive bags, valuables, or other important items to the library.



Note: While I observed individuals entering the library with large bags during my visit, it is possible that this was permitted during the initial opening phase or due to specific circumstances. To ensure a smooth experience, it is advisable to prepare accordingly and arrive with the necessary items.



The library has four floors: 1, M, 2, and 3. There is an elevator available for use. The first floor is spacious and well-lit, with ample seating options for reading, including sofas, tables with power outlets, and long tables by the window overlooking Ratchadamnoen Klang Road. During my visit, many people were using their laptops to work or research information in various areas of the library.



For those who do not have a personal computer but want to access the web or search for information, the library also provides desktop computers for use. There are dozens of computers available, and they are located in multiple areas.



The first floor primarily houses travel books and magazines. Currently, books occupy approximately 20% of the available shelf space, leaving ample room for expansion.



Once you have chosen the book you want to read, you can find a seat in the corner and style that you like.



One peculiar and somewhat bizarre aspect of the space is the abundance of lamps placed on almost every table. However, curiously, about half of these tables lack power outlets. This leaves me wondering about the purpose of these lamps. Are they merely decorative props, or is this a temporary setup during a testing phase? Perhaps the final opening will reveal more functional arrangements with readily available power outlets.



Another cool corner on the 1st floor.



This is a top view from the M floor.



After finishing the first floor, let's take a look at the M floor. This floor also has many tables and sofas for sitting. The stairs to the M floor and the 2nd floor are different. The stairs to the M floor are special stairs that can only reach this floor. However, for those who take the elevator, they can go to any floor.



This book is intended for children.



In addition to the children's books, there is also a spacious playroom for children to enjoy.



While the children are playing, accompanying adults can relax and read books in various corners. This floor offers a diverse range of seating options, including long sofas, stylish couches perfect for lounging, and private nooks with individual desks.



Is there anything else I can help you with?

Let's move on to the second floor, which houses a vast collection of books, primarily novels that cater to my interests. These include lighthearted coming-of-age romances, translated novels like Harry Potter and The Thief of Baramos, and Chinese wuxia novels, particularly those by the late Grandmaster Huang Yi. Each book series comprises multiple volumes and is in excellent condition.



The books are currently arranged alphabetically. Please browse through them to find what you're looking for.



Initially, I was perplexed by this large wooden cabinet. However, upon closer inspection, I discovered that it contained a vast collection of voluminous Chinese books.



English:



This classroom boasts an abundance of reading corners, rivaling the impressive selection found in previous classrooms.



This floor also boasts 3-4 private rooms, aptly named "research rooms." These rooms are fantastic due to their privacy and tranquility. However, I sincerely hope that the library will implement regulations and safeguards to prevent multi-level marketers or tutoring groups from exploiting these rooms for personal gain.



The second floor also houses travel guides and books on design and art, in addition to a variety of fiction titles.



English:



Let's head to the 3rd floor, which is the last floor. At the corner of the 2nd and 3rd floors, there is a seating area similar to this on both floors. The atmosphere is inviting. As for the bathrooms, I forgot to mention that there are bathrooms on every floor. Importantly, the bathrooms on each floor are large, clean, and very nice. You don't have to worry about this at all. ^^



For those who prefer not to sit on the sofas in the open area, there are tables with readily available power outlets. It is heartening to see many people using the space.



This floor's collection primarily focuses on historical documents, the King, and the royal family. The books are in excellent condition and highly readable.



This book, "Just Father is Enough," is a popular choice among many readers. Multiple copies are available for browsing, but please handle them gently and quietly so that others can enjoy them in the future.



The reading tables on the third floor will have a more serious and mature atmosphere compared to other floors.



This floor not only houses books about the King and the Royal Family, but also features an exhibition that showcases the brilliance of King Rama IX. The exhibition is beautifully designed and highly engaging.



This is a beautiful angle.



The image you see on the wall is from a digital display. It will change periodically.



Additionally, they provide stunning photographs like this for our viewing pleasure.



Borrowing Books at the Bangkok City Library

Now that we've taken a tour of the Bangkok City Library, let's explore the final aspect: borrowing books. As you might expect, borrowing books is a key function of any library. While I'm not entirely sure of the exact borrowing process, I suspect it involves using this machine.

To borrow books, you must first become a member. Membership fees are incredibly affordable: 10 baht per year for adults and only 5 baht per year for children under 15. Additionally, there is a 40 baht book deposit (20 baht for children). This deposit is a one-time payment and will be refunded when you cancel your membership, provided you have returned all borrowed books.



The loan period is 7 days. However, not all books are available for loan. Rare books cannot be borrowed, but photocopying services are available instead.



A Haven for Bookworms: Exploring the Bangkok Metropolitan Library

This concludes my exploration of the Bangkok Metropolitan Library. For avid readers, this is a must-visit destination. The library boasts an impressive collection of new books, ample seating, computer access, clean restrooms, and air conditioning. Additionally, free Wi-Fi ensures seamless connectivity. The facilities are well-maintained and cater to diverse needs.

However, there is room for improvement. Parking options are limited, and the book collection, while extensive, could benefit from further expansion. Time will likely address this, as the library continues to acquire new titles.

It is crucial that patrons treat this valuable resource with respect. Adherence to library regulations and responsible use are essential to ensure its longevity and accessibility for all. Let us safeguard this haven for bookworms, allowing it to serve the community for years to come.



If you happen to be passing by and feeling hot and exhausted, you might want to stop by for a quick rest. You might just find yourself so engrossed that you lose track of time. However, please remember that this is a library, so please keep it quiet and be mindful of others.



This concludes my travelogue. I apologize for any omissions or errors. This article reflects my personal experience on the day of my visit. Your experience may differ. If you enjoyed my article, please follow or provide feedback here: https://www.facebook.com/amazingcouples.



Thank you all for reading to the end. See you again. Goodbye.



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