The Seattle Metaphysical Library, an institution for more than 40 years, has moved to Ballard.

The non-profit, non-sectarian organization started at the Pike Place Market in 1961 by a few retired schoolteachers who wanted to share their collection of unusual books. Over the years, people have donated their own collections to the library, which now houses about 12,000 books on unusual and fringe subjects such as astrology, alternative health, hypnosis, world religions, alchemy and more.

"I really like the books," said Margaret Bartley, the library's executive director. "The public libraries don't carry this kind of material, even though it's popular."

The library currently relies on community-based support and also has a collection of videotapes, audiotapes and about 20 years worth of newspaper clippings.

"Really, it's about wanting to go a little deeper into the nature of society," said Bartley.

The library was located on Capitol Hill for 20 years but increased rent prices forced the library to close down in June of last year. It reopened in the new location about six months later. As in the past, the public is welcome to come in and browse the collection, and sit and read books.

"It's a really good place to meet interesting people," said Bartley. "Anybody can come in and browse."

The new Ballard space, a small basement room, is drawing younger of readers in their 20's, said Bartley, as compared to those on Capitol Hill who were typically baby boomers and older.

"I think it's exciting," she said.

Bartley said the metaphysical library is one of the few libraries of its kind in the world and because of it, she offers mail order memberships to people who live out of town.

In addition, the library occasionally hosts presentations by guest speakers on a variety of topics. On Aug. 3, scholar Danica d'Hondt will speak about information related to the topic of Dan Brown's book, "The DaVinci Code." The location of this event is yet to be determined. The library is actively looking for venues, particularly in Ballard, to host events.

The Seattle Metaphysical Library is located in the basement of the Kress Building, 2220 NW Market St., No. L-05, next door to the Great Harvest Bread Company. The library, staffed by volunteers, is generally open Monday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call the library at 329-1794 or visit http://www.seattlemetaphysicallibrary.org.