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January 15, 2007

“Megabiblioteca”

Great big library, limited access. It is nice to have the resources but it is far better to share…

Leafing through the new “megabiblioteca”
By Nacha Cattan/The Herald Mexico
El Universal

Lunes 15 de enero de 2007

Its crude concrete walls give it a look of an ultra-modern loft space. The sunlight filtering through its slatted windows casts a dim cathedral glow, and its awesome size is reminiscent of the hanger in an aircraft carrier.

Mexico City´s new megalibrary, or megabiblioteca as it is commonly referred to in Spanish, is a sight to behold, especially for those who have been searching for a research center that reflects the grandeur of the city it inhabits. Half a million books on science, art, literature, history and 20 other categories are housed in the 125,000-square-foot building.

But making use of the facilities at the Biblioteca José Vasconcelos is sometimes just as overwhelming as its architecture, perhaps more so for foreigners. It helps to know the basic ins and outs before trying to access the largest public library space in the nation.

Let´s start with membership.

Foreigners need more than their utility bill, photo ID and small photo required of Mexican citizens to get a library card. Make sure you also bring along your passport and a person with Mexican citizenship who will vouch for you, called a “fiador.” Photocopy all documents, including a utility bill and ID of your fiador….(MORE)

posted by Anna at 10:56 am |

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