Musashino Place

I was looking for a quiet place to read and stumbled upon Musashino Library — a modern, beautiful building that instantly impressed me. The futuristic, multi-level design feels thoughtfully planned, and it looks like they have a very complete collection (sadly, I couldn’t read in Japanese). People were already lining up before opening, with lots of kids around — probably because it was the end-of-year period. On the lower B2 level, there’s a teen studio that feels like a lively, creative hub for young people, which was really nice to see. The library is well lit with big windows and a warm, calm ambience. There’s also a café on the first floor. They even have a terrace, though it was closed when I visited due to a broken door. The staff are very kind even I can’t say anything in their language. I can easily imagine coming back here again just to enjoy a peaceful reading moment. A truly beautiful and positive space.

A library with impressive architecture, many glass windows. There is many books for children, also a small cafe in 1F.

clean, cool, and stylish library building having cafe, workspace, and study desk, however a little bit difficult to look for the books even if researched on the web.

I came here to study using my computer, but it was difficult to find out where I could do that. Here's the information I wish I knew before I came: - The B1F library has desks, but the signs say you're not allowed to use PCs (and you're not supposed to use your own materials, it's meant for reading the library books). The staff check the spaces quite often and also remove belongings if you're away from your seat too long. - The 1F cafe is a good place to study if you're ok with noise levels, and you need to buy something. - The study corner (スタディコーナー) on 3F is only for people with Musashino City library cards. I'm not a resident (I live in Shinjuku) so I'm not able to use it. - The working desks (ワーキングデスク) on 4F are reservable in 4 hour slots, morning/afternoon/evening. You DON'T need to be a Musashino City resident, but you do need to apply for a card at the counter on 3F which allows you to book a desk using the terminal next to the counter. It's 400 yen for 4 hours which is ok. The desks have good natural light and power (not USB though) Overall it's a lovely place but it's made a lot more difficult by the strict rules in place, and it was hard to tell whether you're allowed to do anything as a non resident!

The library is stunning. Separate floors with different functions. Rooms can be booked, an audio recording room for children and teens, a cafe, a lot of different types of media. It’s definitely a place for everyone. If you are a booklover or interested in libraries or architecture then I“d definitely recommend a visit. It is a modern public library which means it can be louder (especially in the cafe, children’s and teens floor) but a public library is not supposed to be dead quiet