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Library Library

Curious about the new University Library? Come enjoy a sneak preview

At the University Library Singel, a space has been set up where various items and impressions of the new University Library can be seen. This space is to be found next to the information desk on the first floor,

The sneak preview can be visited in the UB Singel until the opening of the new University Library in 2024. This is a permanent exhibition. We will be adding new items regularly. This space can be found next to the information desk on the first floor. In the sneak preview you can see a number of furniture, the chosen colors and fabrics, and part of the artwork that will be found in the monumental stairwell of the new building.
Start date
19 April 2022
End date
3 April 2023

In 2024, the UvA will have a new University Library in the University Quarter. The monumental Binnengasthuis is being converted into a modern University Library. The collections and study areas of the UB Singel and the P.C. Hoofthuis will then move to this new location.

Interaction

The new University Library will be a place for interaction. By connecting the buildings of the former hospital (Binnengasthuis) with a roof, we will construct a massive atrium. This atrium will have seating areas and rooms for collaborative work, but it can also be flexibly converted into a space for presentations, debates and exhibitions. The University Library Café and the rooftop terrace will also facilitate informal interaction. The sneak preview will feature atmospheric impressions of the atrium, the University Library Café and the rooftop terrace.

A variety of spaces

In addition, the new University Library will of course be the ideal place to comfortably get some studying or work done. Thanks to the large variety of spaces, you will always be able to find something that suits your needs at that moment, whether this is a room with mobile whiteboards for collaborative work or a quiet room where you can concentrate. You will easily be able to find out which study areas and workplaces are available using an app. The sneak preview also displays some of the furniture and the colours and materials chosen and lists some of the works of art that will be exhibited in the monumental stairwell.

Impression of the façade screen
Impression of the façade screen

An iconic façade

The sneak preview will even feature a ‘part of the screen façade’. The screen façade represents the new University Library and is one of the architectural highlights. It will cover the exterior of the newly built portion of the new University Library. The producer of the screen façade previously made a mock-up of this unique design. This full-sized replica of part of the final design will be available for viewing in the sneak preview. The mock-up does still feature fake text. The real text is a line of poetry: ‘Read it, it doesn't say what it says’ from the poem Awater by Martinus Nijhoff, translated into the 24 languages taught at the UvA. On the whole, it is very impressive.

You can visit the sneak preview at the University Library on the Singel until the relocation in 2024. We will also regularly add new items, to inspire you and help you look forward to the relocation in 2024 as well. Come and check it out!

More information on the New University Library