library@esplanade was Singapore's first public library for the performing arts (music, dance, theatre and film). It was also one of the few libraries in the world to be located within a performing arts complex, and was the second specialised boutique library in Singapore, after library@orchard.
Background and history
library@esplanade was established as part of the Government of Singapore's plan to develop the nation into a renaissancecity of the 21st century. The objective of the library was to bring the performing arts to the general public and vice versa. Its specialised book collections, programmes and information services seek to enhance the understanding and appreciation of the performing arts for people from all walks of life with the aim of demystifying the arts as an elitist luxury.
Spanning a floor area of 2,300 square metres (24,760 square feet), the layout plan of library@esplanade comprises four clusters or "villages" for music, dance, theatre and film on the same level. This arrangement seeks to create a conducive environment that supports creativity, learning and entertainment for both the layperson and the professionalartiste.
There are also journals, encyclopaedias and directories available for reference. The collection was international in scope, with an emphasis on the performing arts in Singapore and Asia. Like library@orchard, library@esplanade does not have any children's books.
Programmes and exhibitions
The library works closely with practitioners and groups in the local performing arts scene to deliver programmes that reach out to various target audiences. Some of library@esplanade's regular programmes include Esplanade Co.'s Festival programmes, SSO Pre-concert talks, music performances and recitals, talks by industry veterans and arts practitioners, as well as film screenings. The programmes are held mostly on weekends at the Open Stage, and updated programme listings can be found on the library@esplanade's Facebook page.
The library also regularly features exhibitions at four main areas - Glass Display, Innovation Gallery, Dance Village, and Music Village. Notable exhibitions include displays on the Cultural Medallion Recipients in the Performing Arts, highlights from MusicSG, as well as costume displays.
Planned closure
On 2 May 2023, the National Library Board announced that the library@esplanade will permanently close on 30 June 2023, and its collections and programmes will be moved to the National Library in the Civic District.[1] The library@esplanade space will be turned into arts and commercial spaces by Esplanade.
