The Infinity Book Tower (1998), also known as the Idiom installation, is one of Prague’s most thought-provoking contemporary art pieces. This captivating sculpture was created by the Slovak artist Matej Krén and is on display in the Municipal Library.
The tower is constructed from eight thousand books meticulously stacked in a circular formation to create the illusion of an infinite spiral. It was created as a clever visual metaphor for the boundless nature of knowledge and the human imagination. The work invites viewers to consider the role of books and libraries in modern society, which is particularly relevant in the digital age. Books are timeless and infinite in their ability to inspire and educate. The Infinity Book Tower encapsules this concept, perhaps also reminding us that the pursuit of knowledge is an ongoing journey.
The installation is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also interactive. Visitors are encouraged to peek inside the tower, where the mirrored walls create a kaleidoscopic effect. Most people come also to take a video of this phenomenon.
A lesser-known fact is that the installation was created with eco-friendly materials and using energy-efficient technologies, so at the same time it also exemplifies the potential of art and architecture to promote sustainability.
Unfortunately, the Idiom is so popular that there are often queues in front of the Municipal Library on Marianske Square, where it is located in the hallway. Visitors are reminded to leave enough space on the staircase and pavement for those who actually come to borrow the precious resources of wisdom and knowledge. To avoid having to wait in long queues, it is recommended to arrive early before they open, or towards the closing time. There is also an on-site café inside the library, which is available for refreshments. In addition, there is an option to work or study in the building’s study rooms free of charge. You can also work or study in the study rooms in the building for free.
The Municipal Library in Marianske Square, founded in 1891, is one of the oldest and most important public libraries in the Czech Republic. Its mission is to provide access to knowledge to promote literacy, but also to preserve the cultural heritage of Prague. The venue also hosts cultural events, lectures, readings and workshops, and upstairs there are also rotating exhibitions in its gallery.
The library’s main building is a prime example of early 20th-century functionalist architecture. Its clean lines, geometric forms, and spacious interiors reflect the modernist ideals of simplicity and efficiency. The building’s facade is adorned with sculptures and reliefs that celebrate the arts and sciences, further emphasising its role as a centre of learning and culture.
