Where would you put an outdoor library in Orlando?

The concept is taking over South Korea’s capital city. We’re thinking about where we’d copy it in O-Town.

The main entrance to the Orlando Public Library. The brownish-beige stone building has columns and varied levels in its architecture, with "Orlando Public Library" written on the front of the entrance. There are two palm trees — one on the left, and one on the right. A sole person walks in front of the entrance wearing business attire.

Sort of like this, but outside. | Photo via Google Streetview

A cool breeze, some vitamin D, and a good book. Does it get much better than that?

If you ask a resident of South Korea’s capital city, Seoul, the answer would probably be a resounding “no.” The city’s innovative Outdoor Library concept recently drew in a million visitors in just three months, and has attracted 6 million since launching in 2022.

What is it?

“The Seoul Outdoor Library is designed as a vibrant space where people can freely read books and engage in cultural activities outside the traditional library setting,” according to the official city website. The space features chairs, rentable books, and multiple locations.

Where would one go in Orlando?

Our vote? Harry P. Leu Gardens. Across the botanical garden’s ~50 acres, there’s plenty of tree cover to suppress the Florida heat, open spaces for lounging, beautiful flora for the perfect visual backdrop, and the gentle sounds of flowing water + native birdsong to accompany the pages.

Where would you put one? Let us know.

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