The National Library of Belarus

December 1969 Issue

The National Library of Belarus

Rhombicuboctahedron: just try saying that three times fast. It’s easier to describe the shape of August’s subject, the 23-story National Library of Belarus, by its more common name: a diamond. Completed in 2006 and located in Minsk, Belarus, this may be the world’s only library that doubles as a nightlight. By night, 4,646 colored LED fixtures on the structure sparkle in a computer-controlled light show that can be changed to suit any occasion.  

Six readers sent in correct answers by the deadline, and GORDON & JAN KUGLER of San Diego, California, won the drawing. We thank Carolyn Tyssen of Clifton, Texas, for sending in the photo.