Médiathèque de l'Hôtel-Dieu, Renaissance library in Dole, France.
The Médiathèque de l'Hôtel-Dieu is a former Renaissance-era hospital complex elevated on supports above ground level, arranged around a central courtyard space. The building combines elements from different periods and now holds a collection of roughly 80,000 items spanning books, films, music, and other materials.
The building was constructed in 1613 under Jean Boyvin's direction and operated as a hospital for more than 300 years. After the hospital closed in 1992, the structure underwent transformation and reopened as a media library in 2000.
The space now serves locals who come to browse books, films, and music collections gathered over decades. The selection reflects what people in this town care about and creates a place for discovery.
The library welcomes visitors on different days throughout the week, each with varying hours to fit different schedules. Those with mobility needs will find dedicated parking available near the entrance.
One of the original pharmacy rooms still retains its distinctive blue painted walls and white wood paneling from the hospital era. The vaulted ceiling of this space reflects the medicinal preparations that were once stored there.
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