On May 5, Children's Day, part of the first national library of children's literature will open in Ueno Park.
Formally named the International Library of Children's Literature, the library will house an extensive collection of children's books -- both domestic and foreign -- as well as related reference works and research papers.
At the library, visitors can read books and make copies if they wish. The library plans to establish networks with other public and university libraries and world institutions of children's literature, in order to provide a wide variety of information.
On the fourth floor is a space called the Children's Room, where about 3,000 books, including many picture books, are housed for children to enjoy freely.
The library building was built in 1906 and was used as the National Diet Library's Ueno branch until 1998. A typical example of Renaissance-style architecture from the Meiji Era, it has been designated as a historic building.
The building has been undergoing renovation that will make it earthquake-proof while preserving the original design as much as possible. The renovation is scheduled to be completed by 2002.
The library is open 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, closed Monday. For more information, call (03) 3827-2053.