The Bologna Library of Children opened on June 16, 1954 in a Art Nouveau
pavillion at the Margherita Gardens. The collection was then of only 2.000 books,
which became 3.300 the following year. Many books had been offered by the Bologna
Club of Soroptimist International.
In 1956 the library became independent from the Popolare, with rules and statute
of its own. With a Recreation Center on its side, it became very popular and
was attended by children and young people of all ages.
The Library was “temporarily” closed in 1977 and was re-opened, thanks
to regional and county funds, in the majestic Villa Mazzacurati. It was the
first automated library in Bologna. In 2000 it was fully reorganized and enlarged
as part of the new Sala Borsa Library in a more accessible position.