Public libraries are institutions which provide access to information, promote reading, support education and enable lifelong learning for all members of the community. In addition, public libraries provide services based on information and communication technologies and they are suitable places for various activities. Many activities are increasingly carried out in cooperation with other institutions. Therefore, it is important for the successful operation of public libraries that they are purpose-built and equipped with modern technologies, while the constant development of society requires functional and attractively designed public libraries. Cooperation between architects and librarians is crucial in this process. Following Faulkner-Brown's design principles ensures the functionality and aesthetic beauty of libraries, while the user needs are a priority. This paper deals with the analysis of the architecture of public libraries in Scandinavia and Croatia. Public libraries that have been purpose-built and whose design includes a modern approach to library design were analyzed. The purpose of this paper is to show similarities and differences in the interior and exterior of the public libraries of Scandinavia (Dokk1, Metso and Deichman Bjørvika) and Croatia (Ivan Goran Kovačić City Library "Karlovac", Jelkovec Library and Požega City Library). The aim of this paper is to analyze and compare the exterior and interior architecture of the above mentioned libraries according to certain criteria in order to find out whether Scandinavian libraries are more functional than Croatian libraries, whether there are differences in certain elements of the interior design, and the size and appearance of the compared libraries. The research was conducted by comparative analysis of available literature. The results of the research showed that Scandinavian public libraries are more functional, more technologally equipped and more flexible in providing multi-purpose spaces. Also, they are larger and look different from Croatian libraries.