# Must sees
Looking back
Watch the aftermovie of the Rotterdam Warm Winter Weeks
Seven years after the iconic Tunnel of Love, the magic of light, music, and romance returns to Rotterdam. On Saturday, February 14th, Valentine's Day, the vacant Central Library on Binnenrotte will be the setting for Love is in the air: a day where love takes centre stage and is spread throughout the city.
The striking building with the yellow pipes is temporarily vacant in the run-up to a large-scale renovation. Before the refurbishment begins, the building will be given one last special purpose. After the design fair OBJECT in early February, it will be time a week later for an event entirely centred on attention, connection and warm words.
In the heart of the former library, an impressive light installation is taking shape by artist duo Madje Vollaers and Pascal Zwart. Under the title Love is in the air, they create a spatial love letter that visitors can literally walk through. Light, form and music come together to reveal all sides of love: from romantic to platonic, and from gratitude to playfulness.
The duo are no strangers to Rotterdam. Previously, they were responsible for projects such as the Tunnel of Love in the Maastunnel, light installations during King’s Day, and productions for major events including the Eurovision Song Contest and North Sea Jazz. For this project, they are collaborating with Elsbeth van Noppen and producer/DJ Beau Zwart, who provides the musical atmosphere.
Visitors are not only invited to look and listen, but also to take part themselves. Scattered throughout the library are fourteen writing desks, each representing a district of Rotterdam. At these desks, writers are ready with typewriters, fountain pens, paper and envelopes. Anyone who wishes can have a personal love letter written.
This can be for a loved one, but just as easily for a parent, grandparent, neighbour, friend, classmate, or simply someone who could use a little encouragement. The letter does not remain behind: outside the door, postmen are waiting to head out into the city and deliver the messages of love later that same day.
This special Valentine’s activity is one of the last opportunities to experience the iconic library building in this way. After more than forty years of intensive use, the Central Library is due for a thorough renewal. The renovation will begin in the spring of 2026, after which the building will reopen in a renewed form in 2029.
During the renovation, the Central Library will temporarily relocate to Librijesteeg 4, approximately 300 metres from its current location. The temporary library opened its doors in early 2026.
