A total of 16 libraries from all over the world applied to be considered for this international award. The many applicants have now been reduced to four shortlisted libraries, one of which will be named the world’s best new public library for 2019.

The shortlisted libraries have been selected by an international jury consisting of members from relevant sections of International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA), which supports the award in partnership with the sponsor, Systematic. 

The shortlisted libraries are:

  • Green Square Library and Plaza (Australia)
  • Bibliotheek LocHal (Netherlands)
  • Oodi Helsinki Central Library (Finland)
  • Tūranga – Christchurch Central Library (New Zealand)

Further details about the shortlisted libraries is available on our blog.

The winner of the 2019 IFLA/Systematic Public Library of the Year will be selected from among these four nominees. The Award is an annual prize given to a public library that is either newly built or set up in premises not previously used for library purposes.

The Public Library of the Year Award is accompanied by a USD 5,000 prize, sponsored by Systematic.

The winner of the 2019 IFLA/Systematic Public Library of the Year will be announced during the IFLA Annual Congress, which will take place on 27 August in Athens Greece.