Ospedale dei Libri

Architecture, Concept Design, Visualization

2020

The lifespan of a book is short - especially the lifespan of the book that resides in a library. It’s been torn, dropped, dirtied, and destroyed through the hands of many, with its life-ending abruptly and thrown into the trash. However, what happens to the book outside the library can not be controlled. Ospedale dei Libri (book hospital), has been created to preserve the lifespan of these neglected books. Located near Sant’Amrbogio Market, Florence University School of Architecture, and La Nazione newsletter office, the extension of Architecture School Library encounters a diverse crowd of audiences. By extending the loggia typology, the four wings of the annex correspond to four groups of users. Threaded by the book-repairing tracks, the new courtyard becomes the merging point of a brand new community with diverse interests. Once the book safely returns to the library, this hospital will carefully inspect, repair, then promptly disinfect the book and return it to its shelf. This process is streamlined and made into a public spectacle for the enjoyment of people and the safety of these books. Concept development done in collaboration with Tina Lim; Jerry led 3D modeling and visualization.