The Windows of the World, established by the National Library of Public Information (NLPI) in April 2025, has become an important platform for promoting international cultural exchange. Following the French and German Corners, this platform now celebrates a new highlight: the Czech Corner, which is officially inaugurated today (September 26), in collaboration with the Czech Centre Taipei and the Czech Economic and Cultural Office.
 
The Czech Corner has received nearly one hundred carefully selected books from the Czech Centre Taipei, including classics and contemporary works by authors such as Franz Kafka and Milan Kundera. The collection is further enriched by a cultural display featuring Czech puppets (loutka), traditional costumes (kroj), and other artifacts. Together, these not only expand NLPI’s multicultural collections but also build a new bridge for cultural exchange between Taiwan and the Czech Republic. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the literary depth and artistic charm of Czech culture.
 
The establishment of the Czech Corner marks an important milestone in NLPI’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international cultural exchange. Through close collaboration with the Czech Centre Taipei and the Czech Economic and Cultural Office, the collection now features a wide selection of books related to Czech culture. Highlights include award-winning works from the important Czech Literary PrizeMagnesia Litera (2023–2025), as well as monumental Czech classics from thečeská knižnice publishing project. The Corner also houses related Chinese-language publications, such as works by Franz Kafka, Bohumil Hrabal, and Milan Kundera. These books are displayed alongside those from the earlier exhibitionHere and Now: Contemporary Czech Comics, offering readers a rich panorama of Czech literature—from timeless novels to contemporary comics—showcasing the country’s narrative traditions and artistic vitality.
 
To further enhance the cultural experience, the Czech Corner features an exhibition of authentic Czech artifacts. With the generous support of the Czech Economic and Cultural Office, the Czech Tourism Board, and Mr. Kao Song-Ming, the First Taiwanese citizen awarded the GRATIAS AGIT prize by the Czech Republic, visitors can enjoy close encounters with iconic items of Czech culture: expressive Czech puppets (loutka), colorful and finely crafted traditional costumes (kroj), distinctive spa cups (lázeňský pohárek), and a collection of intricate Czech food models. Together, these artifacts and the book collection create an immersive cultural space, allowing visitors to feel as though they are transported to the heart of Central Europe to experience the creativity and aesthetics of the Czech people.
 
With the Czech Corner, NLPI not only provides readers in Taiwan with greater access to Czech culture and language, but also encourages the public to broaden their international horizons and foster deeper understanding and respect for diverse cultures. The Czech Corner at the Windows of the World, located on the 3rd floor of NLPI’s Main Library, now opens its doors to all visitors, inviting them to embark on a journey of knowledge and discovery into the fascinating world of Czech culture.
Exhibition Information
Czech Corner Opening Book & Cultural Exhibition
Dates: September 26 – November 15, 2025
(Traditional Czech costumes will be on display starting October 22)
Venue: Windows of the World, 3F Main Library, National Library of Public Information (NLPI)