Kuhmo City Library

Kuhmos City Library is an architecturally significant building that has gained international attention. Located by the Pajakkajoki River, the library is a popular destination for both locals and visitors.

A library was first established in Kuhmo in 1880. Planning for the current library building began in the early 1980s. In 1984, an open architectural competition was held. The winning design, Atalante, was created by the Nurmela-Raimoranta-Tasa architectural firm. The name Atalante was inspired by Jean Vigo’s film L’Atalante. In the film, L’Atalante is a river barge, while in Kuhmo it symbolizes a vessel bringing knowledge and art from around the world. The new library building was opened in 1988.

The library offers a wide selection of books, magazines, films, games, and digital materials. Visitors have access to public computers, a printer, and spaces for meetings and remote work. The library also hosts changing exhibitions.

A self-service library section was opened in spring 2022. Libraries are considered an essential service, and every municipality in Finland is required to provide library services.

Near the library, by the riverbank, stands Irma Laukkanen’s sculpture Room of Light. In the courtyard, you can also find The Tower of Babel, designed by Kari Cavén. The sculpture was built from the orange chairs of the former Kontio School, which were once used during Kuhmo Chamber Music Festival concerts.