The paper presents a short review of the development tendencies of academic and public libraries. In the period of the last two decades the features of minimalistic expression became stronger in the architecture of libraries. The main criteria revealing minimalistic expression in architecture are investigated: simplicity, geometry, light, integrity and statical character. Such libraries as the Library of Porto University (Portugal, 1996), the Library of Delfo Technological University (Holland, 1998), distinquish themselves in simplicity of forms and clearness of structure. Minimalists consider colour and light as the main elements of modelling and forming space and size. For example, the Royal Library called "Black Diamond" is distinquished by a black facade (Denmark, 1999). The newest works of minimalists expanded the concept of minimalistic form. Minimal form in architecture may be expressed not only by primary geometrical figures, but by rather plastic derivatives as well. Two different works of Japanese architects splendidly illustrate it: it is of quadratic plan rectangular prism practically glass mediateka in Sedai town (2001) and of irregular cylinder (egg form) entirely glass library in Morioka town. The authors of the paper present a conceptual project of the Public Library in Vilnius, prepared in 2003, which has distinct features of minimalistic architecture. The building's form is rational -a quadratic prism one wall of which is concaved inside what gives the building expressiveness and attraction. Minimalism in library architecture reveals the changed conception of modern library as well.
