Stores & Spaces (159)
Al fresco reading
Since June 2009 the citizens of Salbke (a ward of Magdeburg, in Eastern Germany) have had their own 24hour open-air library. Locals can borrow from over 10,000 books that have been privately donated from all over the country. It all started as a temporary project, but due to its success Salbke’s citizens now minister the project by themselves.
Why it matters
An architect’s office, the government's support, a local beer brewery and most importantly the citizens’ passionate commitment made this unorthodox project possible. Will more brands (like the brewery Hasseröder) have to participate in such local initiatives to create true social value of outdoor space and therefore brand value?
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