Library = Bibiloteca

Took a much needed break from Academy life today and snuck out to Barcelona in search of an elusive library I've been looking for, for the longest time---the University of Barcelona's Literature and Language library.

It was pretty cool, but before I start yapping away, I'm going to remind myself that concision is precision.  So here it is, in pictures :)

 Was greeted by a host of shrubs upon entering the University courtyard.  There was something in the air.  It wasn't the silent trees or the old concrete that stood yawning ages old.  It was the fresh feeling of campus life all over again.  God, how I miss school.

(Little) Surprise of surprises.  They had a math exhibition going on in one of the foyers.  It included a host of exhibits and one that caught my eye were these bubble prisms.  Here's a diamond shaped mold,

And a strange cube one.  Utterly fascinating.

 

 The path up to the library overlooked another beautiful courtyard.  This one reminds me of a Colosseum, somehow.  Must be the arches.

 

 Library entrance.

The University of Barcelona's Library of Language and Literature.  A humble three storied, two sectioned abode filled with warm light and the occasional beam of sunlight.

 I couldn't figure out how to get to the third floor.

 Interestingly, beneath the beautiful exterior, the library also had dingy shelf sections BEHIND the warm walls.  You got to your real books (and not the bai3 swee4 ones on the walls which no one touches) through a small door along the walls.  Hardly noticeable, once you go through, hard florescent light hits you.  The floor also turns from nice rubber laminated grounds to crappy, noisy metal grates that clank at your every step.  Case in point above!

I spent so much time in the library, I was too hungry to "tahan" all the way back to the Academy.  So I decided to reward myself and go eat at a Chinese restaurant.  For EUR9,95, I got a set dinner that included Hot and Spicy Soup (麻辣汤),

 A plate of commendably fried beef noodles,

Prawns fried in spicy sauce and vegetables, plus dessert, and mineral water!  Throw in the fact that I convinced the guy to give me a bowl of rice FOC (they wanted to charge me EUR1,25!! for it!!!) it was quite worth it, and a definite great end to a good day :)