Designed by Malaysian architect and ecologist Ken Yeang, this white, curvaceous brains trust is home to numerous facilities, including a reference library, lending library and drama centre. For visitors, the real draws are the display of beautiful maps of Asia on level 10 (some dating back to the 16th century), and the library's programme of free exhibitions. If you have little ones in tow, head to the forest-themed children's library in the basement for some storytime R&R.