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Where would you put an outdoor library in Kansas City?

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

A little library in Kansas City. It is red and next to a tree-lined path.

Except instead of a little library like this, we’re thinking of a big one.

Photo by KCtoday

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 drew in a million visitors in the past 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 KC?

Our vote? Loose Park. There’s plenty of tree cover to suppress the KC summer heat, 75 acres to find a quiet grassy spot, a tranquil rose garden, and the peaceful sounds of the Loose Park pond.

Where would you like to see an outdoor library in KC? Let us know — we’ll share your ideas in a future newsletter.

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