Small Exhibition: What Libraries Protect, What Libraries Open
Libraries frequently appear as settings in Haruki Murakami’s works, and Murakami himself describes them as “a special place for me.” When reading books, especially stories, don’t you sometimes feel as if you’ve entered another world, only to return upon finishing, or perhaps feel slightly changed by that journey?
Libraries serve as a kind of “window to another world” within our reality, sometimes as a shelter that protects visitors from tough situations. At the same time, through their collections, reference services, and events, they also act as a source of ideas for visitors, opening up their lives and thoughts.
Looking at the importance of libraries illustrated in Murakami’s works, this exhibition invites you to consider why libraries remain essential not only in everyday life but also under harsh circumstances.
- September 11, 2025 – October 28, 2025
- Opening hours: 10:00-17:00
- Closed: Wednesdays and other days (Please see website for details)
- Free Admission
- The Waseda International House of Literature, 1F
* The exhibition is mainly in Japanese, but English commentary is also available at the venue.
