If Mallorca’s history were a book, the Biblioteca de Cort would be one of its most intriguing chapters. As the island’s very first municipal library, this landmark speaks volumes of a city’s commitment to knowledge. So step inside this timeless sanctuary, where learning and discovery are always in print.
A Building Steeped in History
Located on the ground floor of Palma’s Town Hall building, the Biblioteca de Cort boasts a storied past. By the late 19th century, the entire building had fallen into disrepair. In 1892, renowned local architect Manuel Chapulí undertook a comprehensive renovation. However, disaster struck in February 1894 when a fire destroyed the entire structure, necessitating a complete rebuild of the ground floor. Overwhelmed by the setbacks, Chapulí resigned in 1895.
The project’s salvation came in the form of Gaspar Bennazar, a distinguished Mallorcan architect. Bennazar took charge of constructing a new hall and grand staircase, culminating in the completion of the library 30 years later. On September 19, 1935, less than a year before the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War, the Biblioteca de Cort opened its doors, marking a new chapter in Palma’s history. The initial collection included 7,000 volumes, partly drawn from the library of Antoni Villalonga i Pérez, an unconventional former mayor of Palma who was notable for his support of federal republicanism.
A Sanctuary of Learning
The library’s interior exudes an old-world charm, with towering wooden bookcases encircling the space. These two-story structures are supported by elegant columns, and the light olive-green walls provide a tranquil backdrop for readers. A spiral staircase adds a playful touch, inviting visitors to explore the upper level.
Among its treasures is a collection of rare and valuable books, including a 1521 edition of works by philosopher and poet Ramon Llull. What began with 7,000 volumes has grown to an impressive 40,000, catering to the needs of 39,000 registered users with 40 reading seats.
Martina Pascual: A Visionary Leader
Behind the library’s success was Martina Pascual, its first director. Appointed in 1931, Pascual was a pioneering figure in the Balearic Islands. She honed her skills at the Higher School for Librarians of Catalonia and used her expertise to prepare the Biblioteca de Cort for its grand opening. Pascual’s dedication extended to curating a specialized collection on Palma, featuring essential monographs, pamphlets, and newspapers that offer invaluable insights into the city’s history.
Bringing Knowledge to the Community
The Biblioteca de Cort was not just a static institution; it actively reached out to the community. In its early years, the library established a children’s section at the Soledad School to foster a love of reading among the younger generation.
In 1961, the library introduced a groundbreaking service: a mobile library. This innovative vehicle traveled across Palma, delivering books and comics to schools, parish institutions, and private educational centers. Stocked with 2,500 books, the nomadic library became a beloved fixture in the city’s cultural landscape until its retirement in 1977. This initiative laid the groundwork for the development of a robust library network.
A Belated But Vital Addition
In 1993, on World Book Day, the Biblioteca de Cort took a significant step forward by launching its book lending section. While somewhat late to adopt this essential service, the library’s commitment to expanding access to knowledge has only strengthened over the years.
A Living Legacy
The Biblioteca de Cort is central to Palma’s dedication to education and culture, binding together rich history, architectural beauty, and ever-evolving services that continue today. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a bookworm, or simply in search of a peaceful nook to leaf through your thoughts, the Biblioteca de Cort is definitely a place worth bookmarking.
Text by Stefan Rairayan
