Seocho-gu's Umyeon Library runs its outdoor rooftop reading space twice from Sept. 30 to Oct. 29, decked out with reeds, chrysanthemums, lanterns and lights for a fall atmosphere
Seocho-gu in Seoul will operate "Umyeon Book Garden," a free outdoor reading and relaxation space on the fourth-floor terrace of Seocho-gu Umyeon Public Library, from Sept. 30 to Oct. 29.
First introduced this past spring, the Book Garden transforms the outdoor terrace into a park-like setting with artificial turf, picnic mats, camping chairs and small tents, allowing residents to read in a relaxed environment whether alone or with family. The second-half run is divided into two sessions: the first from Sept. 30 to Oct. 13, and the second from Oct. 16 to Oct. 29. Decorative reeds and chrysanthemums will be placed on-site, and lanterns and lights will be used in the evenings to create a full autumn ambiance.
During library operating hours, any resident may freely borrow a "book kit" — a bundle containing a book, a picnic mat, a blanket and other outdoor reading supplies. The number of available kits has been expanded from 20 sets in the spring to 50, accommodating up to 100 users at a time.
On Oct. 7 at 4:30 p.m., the library will mark the second-half opening with a special cultural event called "Fantastic Magic Show" — an interactive performance featuring audience-participation magic, balloon art and bubble shows, open to around 30 toddlers and young children and their guardians.
Throughout the operating period, the library will also run a book curation display under the theme "Connecting Generations," featuring nine selected titles that link the past and present of older adults. A traditional craft experience tied to the book "Grandmother's Mother-of-Pearl Chest" will be offered alongside the display.
In October, the district also plans to partner with the Seocho Jayeonilang Children's Center, a public facility near Umyeon Library, to run a pop-up outdoor library — "Out in the Open: Nature and Books" — in the yard of Seocho Hoban Summit apartment complex, using book kits. The pop-up is expected to give children and parents a special experience of enjoying books close to nature.
"We hope residents will take some time to relax with a good book and soak in the autumn atmosphere at Umyeon Book Garden," Seocho-gu District Mayor Jeon Seong-su said. "We will continue to provide strong support so that everyone, from children to seniors, can enjoy books and culture as part of their everyday lives."
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