One of the unique things of memory is, it comes back often. Sometimes it makes us happy, sometimes we become melancholic and often it inspires. My string of memories binds all the inspiring reminiscences with tender care and nurtures it passionately. It often surfaces amidst the labyrinths of my mind, enlivens me when I feel down, rendering me refreshed with utmost zeal to acquire knowledge, more and more.
Black Diamond in Copenhagen, Denmark
In the journey of acquiring more knowledge, my solemn resources are books (nowadays internet as well). I consider the abode of books as my temple, church, mosque and gurudwara. Yeah, you got it right, I am talking about libraries. I am fond of libraries, the smell of books all around, the penetrating silence and the peace inside. Previously I have written about The Library of Princeton University. This time it is about the national library of Denmark and Copenhagen university – Black Diamond, one among the world’s five most beautiful libraries.
In the journey of acquiring more knowledge, my solemn resources are books Click To Tweet
Black Diamond, one among the world's five most beautiful libraries. Click To Tweet

In front of Black Diamond in Copenhagen.
Black Diamond – A library with a waterfront
This spectacular waterfront library is an extension of the old Danish library. The nickname “Black Diamond” is due to the black granite cladding and irregular angles. The exterior of polished black granite is so reflective that one can see the sky, the clouds, the water, and the boats on it. It is one of the iconic buildings of Copenhagen and the largest library in Nordic countries. If one has a penchant for books or modern designs, then this is the place to be.

Black Diamond – A library with a waterfront!
Another interesting part to notice is the union of the old edifice with the new one. The impressive exterior made us curious enough to go inside the building and explore. When we stepped inside, it impressed us even more.

Inside Black Diamond in Copenhagen.!
Inside the Black Diamond
Narratives can’t do complete justice to the experience of a cup of coffee while seeing the boats passing by the canal from the ground floor of the library. We went further up and was amazed to see the wonderful blend in the interior designs with the old building to that of the new. Even if you are in Copenhagen for a day or two, then don’t miss visiting this beautiful library.

Inside the library!
Treasures in the Danish Library
The preserved treasures inside the Danish library are astounding. It has “the heart book”, which is regarded as the oldest danish ballad manuscript compiled in 1550s. It has 83 love ballads. A Gutenberg bible, original manuscripts of Kierkegaard, Hans Christian Anderson and many more.
Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.
by Soren Kierkegaard
Finally, after coming out of the library when my bibliophilic mind was suffused with joy and peace, I took a stroll outside the library.
Also read: The Neils Bohr Institute in Copenhagen, Denmark

Met this mermaid outside the library!
Similar articles from Travel Realizations
- The EPFL library in Lausanne, Switzerland – A revolutionary architecture!
- The Library of Strahov Monastery in Prague, Czech Republic – One of the world’s most beautiful libraries!
- The Library of Princeton University – A Paradise!
- The Neils Bohr Institute in Copenhagen, Denmark
I would love to know your views about visiting Library! Do you like visiting a library?
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Beate
I love libraries so much. I can spend hours every day getting lost in books and I do spend hours in the local library whenever I get a chance. This one in Copenhagen looks amazing, I hope to visit it some day!
Travel Realizations
Dear Beate,
I am sure you will visit this library some day!
Plowing Through Life (Martha)
Wow, what an amazing place. A waterfront library. That is cool. Especially for someone like me who loves to read and loves being near water. The two together? Heaven.
Travel Realizations
Dear Martha,
Yes, you are right! It is a deadly combo!
Rachna Chhabria
I love visiting libraries. I am always excited when I visit one. Black Diamond is such an unusual name for a library.
Travel Realizations
Hi Rachna,
Thank you so much for your comment. The name "Black Diamond" is due to the black granite cladding and irregular angles.
Optimistic Existentialist
A waterfront library – what a unique and beautiful idea. I definitely need to visit here when I visit Denmark for sure. I love libraries. There's a small library here in town that I like going to on occasion 🙂
Travel Realizations
When you will go to Copenhagen, don't forget to see "the heart book" inside the black diamond library.. It is amazing!