A Lens Inside the Biblioteca Nacional de El Salvador (BINAES)
In Spanish, library translates to biblioteca. It’s often confused with librería, which sounds similar but refers to a a bookstore -- think Barnes & Noble. Even though it’s a minor distinction, it’s an important one. A library, typically public, free, and for the community, is all about access to resources and knowledge.
During my latest trip to El Salvador, we had a few hours to explore in the country’s capital, San Salvador, and without hesitation, we decided to visit the Biblioteca Nacional de El Salvador (BINAES). Opened in November 2023, it’s one of the country’s most recent public infrastructure projects under the leadership of President Nayib Bukele.
I’ve never seen anything like this. This free, seven floor, secured library is open 24/7, which immediately reaffirms the commitment to accessibility. Located at the center of San Salvador near the Palacio Nacional, it features signage in multiple languages, making it welcoming not just locals but tourists too.
What stood out to me the most was how, beyond traditional resources like books, the library creates opportunities for experimental learning through interactive technology and gaming experiences. The open layout and collaborative spaces make this place feel designed for how people learn and interact today, not just how they used to.
El Salvador is truly redefining what a traditional library is, what it offers, and how it looks. It’s an example that as learning continues to evolve, accessibility should evolve with it, too.
Check out a few photos from my visit to BINAES:
All photos taken on my Sony a6300.
If you’re ever in San Salvador, it’s worth experiencing it for yourself.