Freed from books, a library becomes a place of exchange, a shared public square connected to the internet. While it wants to be a freespace – akin to the all-powerful Supersurface – that enables a wide range of social interactions, the reality is that this sort of freedom and flexibility comes with the need for auxiliary (storage) spaces. At the same time, while access to the internet appears intangible, it is far from metaphysical. Behind each seemingly virtual action are servers and electric cables that demand physical presence.

The need for auxiliary spaces and the desire for freespace results in two contrasting spatial typologies within a single project. The infrastructure that enables sharing (such as storage and servers) are packed into an architecturally-dense mass. A 3D-printing and computer lab is also placed in this mass. Rather than hiding the mass, the library – just as the Valletta Puggia shows off technology – embraces its presence and exposes its interior. The mass’ geometry then choreographs a series of fixed lounge and gathering spaces. The remaining space is left empty to operate as a flexible organism that generates endless layouts that enable a range of social activities.

The confluence of the choreographed mass and the free plane produces a provocative interface between highly scripted and unscripted interactions. It is here that library-goers access the different storage systems. Altogether, the library becomes an architecture that celebrates the experiences of sharing a space.