Sapporo

๐Ÿ“–

Libraries

Information about public libraries in Sapporo and how to access their resources.

Sections

1. Overview of Libraries in Sapporo

Sapporo has a well-organized public library system, with the Sapporo City Library (ๆœญๅนŒๅธ‚ๅ›ณๆ›ธ้คจ) network being the most prominent. This network includes a central library and several branch libraries spread across the city. Libraries in Sapporo cater to a wide range of users, including children, students, researchers, and casual readers. They are welcoming to both Japanese and non-Japanese speakers, with some offering foreign-language materials.

2. Notable Libraries in Sapporo

Here are some of the key libraries you might want to visit:

a. Sapporo Central Library (ๆœญๅนŒๅธ‚ไธญๅคฎๅ›ณๆ›ธ้คจ)

  • Location: Located in Chuo Ward, near Maruyama Park.
  • Highlights: The largest library in the city, with an extensive collection of books, magazines, newspapers, and multimedia resources.
  • Foreign-Language Materials: Offers books and resources in English, Chinese, Korean, and other languages.
  • Facilities: Study rooms, multimedia viewing areas, and free Wi-Fi.

b. Hokkaido University Library (ๅŒ—ๆตท้“ๅคงๅญฆ้™„ๅฑžๅ›ณๆ›ธ้คจ)

  • Location: On the Hokkaido University campus in Kita Ward.
  • Highlights: A research-focused library with a vast collection of academic materials. While primarily for students and faculty, visitors can access some resources with permission.
  • Foreign-Language Materials: Extensive academic resources in English and other languages.
  • Facilities: Quiet study spaces, computer access, and archives.

c. Sapporo Childrenโ€™s Library (ๆœญๅนŒๅธ‚ใ“ใฉใ‚‚ๅ›ณๆ›ธ้คจ)

  • Location: Inside the Sapporo Central Library.
  • Highlights: A dedicated space for children, with books, storytelling sessions, and educational activities.
  • Foreign-Language Materials: Limited selection of childrenโ€™s books in English and other languages.

d. Ward Libraries (ๅŒบๆฐ‘ใ‚ปใƒณใ‚ฟใƒผๅ›ณๆ›ธๅฎค)

  • Each ward in Sapporo has its own smaller library or reading room, such as the Toyohira Ward Library or the Atsubetsu Ward Library. These are convenient for local residents and offer a more community-focused experience.

3. Membership and Borrowing Procedures

Membership

  • Who Can Join: Membership is free for anyone living, working, or studying in Sapporo. Visitors can also use the libraries, but borrowing privileges may be limited.
  • How to Register:
    1. Visit any library branch with a valid ID (e.g., residence card, passport, or student ID).
    2. Fill out a registration form (available in Japanese; staff may assist if needed).
    3. Receive a library card, which can be used across all Sapporo City Library branches.

Borrowing Rules

  • Loan Limits: Typically, you can borrow up to 10 items (books, magazines, CDs, DVDs) at a time.
  • Loan Period: 2 weeks, with the option to renew if no one else has reserved the item.
  • Returns: Items can be returned to any branch in the Sapporo City Library network. Drop-off boxes are available for after-hours returns.

4. Services and Facilities

Libraries in Sapporo offer a variety of services and facilities to meet the needs of diverse users:

a. Services

  • Foreign-Language Resources: Many libraries have a section for foreign-language books, including English, Chinese, and Korean. The Central Library has the largest collection.
  • Digital Resources: Access to e-books, online databases, and digital newspapers (some in foreign languages).
  • Interlibrary Loan: If a book is not available at your local branch, you can request it from another branch.
  • Events and Workshops: Libraries host cultural events, book clubs, and workshops, often free of charge.
  • Childrenโ€™s Programs: Storytelling sessions, craft activities, and educational programs for kids.

b. Facilities

  • Study Areas: Quiet study rooms and desks are available, though they may require advance booking during busy periods.
  • Computer Access: Public computers with internet access are available, often free or for a small fee.
  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available in most libraries.
  • Multimedia Rooms: Some libraries have facilities for watching DVDs or listening to CDs on-site.
  • Accessibility: Libraries are wheelchair-accessible, and some offer resources for visually impaired users.

5. Costs

  • Membership: Free for residents, workers, and students in Sapporo.
  • Borrowing: Free for books and most materials. Some multimedia items (e.g., DVDs) may have a small fee.
  • Printing/Copying: Available for a small fee (usually ยฅ10โ€“ยฅ50 per page, depending on color or size).

6. Opening Hours

  • Typical Hours: Most libraries are open from 9:15 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and 9:15 AM to 5:00 PM on weekends and holidays.
  • Closed Days: Libraries are usually closed on Mondays, national holidays, and during the New Year period (December 29โ€“January 3). Check the specific libraryโ€™s website for exact hours.

7. Cultural and Local Considerations

  • Quiet Environment: Libraries in Japan are very quiet, and talking loudly or making phone calls is discouraged.
  • Shoes: In some childrenโ€™s areas, you may be required to remove your shoes.
  • Language Barrier: While most signage is in Japanese, some libraries (like the Central Library) have English instructions. Staff may have limited English proficiency, but they are generally helpful.
  • Respect for Rules: Follow all posted rules, such as no eating or drinking in the library.
  • Seasonal Considerations: During winter, libraries are a warm and cozy place to spend time. Be mindful of snow-covered shoes when entering.

8. Tips for Navigating Libraries in Sapporo

  • Use the Online Catalog: The Sapporo City Library website (available in Japanese) allows you to search for books and reserve them in advance.
  • Bring Your ID: Always carry your library card or ID for borrowing and accessing certain facilities.
  • Ask for Help: Donโ€™t hesitate to ask staff for assistance, even if you donโ€™t speak Japanese. Simple phrases or translation apps can help.
  • Plan Your Visit: Check opening hours and events online before visiting, especially during holidays.
  • Explore Local Branches: Smaller ward libraries are less crowded and may have unique community-focused events.

9. Conclusion

Libraries in Sapporo are not just places to borrow booksโ€”they are community hubs offering a wealth of resources and services. Whether youโ€™re a visitor looking for a quiet place to read or an immigrant seeking to improve your Japanese skills or access foreign-language materials, Sapporoโ€™s libraries are welcoming and accessible. By understanding the membership process, borrowing rules, and cultural norms, you can make the most of these valuable public spaces.