melissa grace kreider

I sniffed out Florence's public library and got a card. Those of you that know me will not be surprised, and those of you that don't-I love books. Libraries. One might describe me as a fanatic of bookshelves and how one chooses to arrange them.

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Err. Moving on-

The public library here in Florence goes by Biblioteca delle Oblate. It has a vast selection of music, movies, periodicals, and of course, books. You know, the usual library things. What sets Oblate aside to me is the Cafe on the third floor. Here you can study, eat, enjoy the sun and meet Italian university students who are doing the same. A great place to make local friends and brush up on your Italian skills. 

    I've heard from foreign friends back in the states that they learned English through cartoons. Spongebob, Fairly Oddparents, etc. My Italian teacher suggested that I do the same! I marched to Oblate and got a library card to be able to rent Italian movies, cartoons and music. While I love books, my Italian skills are in no condition to tackle entire novels, so I opted for something more simple. So far, so good!

It's a wonderful place to study, hang out, and enjoy the view. I might end up camping out there during finals week. 

The bottom courtyard in Oblate.

Inside!

The view from the top floor.