As an institution Kranj City Library dates back to 1960, but after dutifully providing the good citizens of Gorenjska with reading material for some five decades, the library made headlines in 2011 when it centralised several of its branches in the renovated premises of a former socialist-era shopping centre. Both inside and out the building is an impressive architectural specimen, seamlessly combining elements of the original brutalist structure (eg rusted steel plates and exposed I-beams) with modern additions (a glass façade and futuristic ergonomic furniture), and is rightfully a newfound source of pride for local residents. More than just a fancy home for books and periodicals, Kranj's library has been conceived to serve as the 'town's living room', providing ample space for social activities and also hosting various exhibitions, lectures and other cultural events.