Children's Library (Old Catholic Church)

Located in the Çınarlar neighborhood of Giresun, the Giresun Children's Library is a beautiful example of how a historical building can be brought back into the educational and cultural life of children. Known popularly as the Old Catholic Church, the building is described in historical sources as having been constructed as a Catholic church. While there are conflicting accounts regarding its construction date, the Culture Portal states that it was built between 1850 and 1900, while the Eastern Black Sea Cultural Inventory indicates it was constructed in 1912 by Capuchin friars. Built of cut stone, the building is notable for its rectangular plan, triangular pediment main facade, and stonework. The pointed arched entrance and double-winged wooden door on the north facade are particularly striking architectural details. The interior reflects the original character of the historical building. The tile mosaic floor, decorative ornaments, the gallery section, and arched windows on different facades give the building a unique appearance. With these features, the building is considered one of the remarkable examples of historical non-Muslim architecture in Giresun. The historical building has been used as a Children's Library since 1967. Thus, the building, which had a different function in the past, has been preserved over time and transformed into a cultural space where children can connect with books. Following the repairs carried out within the scope of the restoration works conducted by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the library's equipment has also been renewed to suit the needs and interests of children. Today, the library contains books in various fields, primarily children's literature, as well as chess sets, educational games, documentary content, and various educational materials. Thus, it is more than just a place to read books; it is a cultural space where children can learn and spend time simultaneously. One of the most important features that makes the Giresun Children's Library special is that a historical church building continues to live on as a library serving children. In this respect, the building brings together Giresun's multifaceted history and cultural heritage with contemporary life. Located in the city center, this historical building stands out as one of Giresun's must-see cultural landmarks, both for its architecture and its current function.