Future Library

Future Library’s “Google-inspired” Media Labs are transforming Greece’s public libraries

Non-profit organisation Future Library aims to develop a sustainable network of public and municipal libraries across Greece, all linked to the country’s national library. Funded by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, Future Library’s vision is to strengthen the significance of public libraries for local communities. With Google support, the organisation embarked on a project to transform nine public libraries into modern hubs of creativity and innovation, by creating in-house Media Labs. Receiving direction from the Google Real Estate team, the project’s architects created the new Media Labs to embrace the philosophy of Google offices around the world. Throughout the project, Google also provided training to librarians on using online tools and advised Future Library on key topics such as copyright, digital books and new creative platforms. Within less than a week of opening, the Media Labs had welcomed 5,500 visitors. They now support students, young artists, entrepreneurs and those who are unemployed to express their creativity through video and music, develop their digital skills and participate in workshops. “The ‘Google-inspired’ Media Labs are becoming hubs of innovation, creativity​ ​and​ knowledge sharing for local communities,” says Dimitris Protopsaltou​, Director of Future Library.