New University Library to be built on BG site
The verdict is out. The UvA Board of the University has voted to build the new University Library on the Binnengasthuis site in the former Tweede Chirurgische Kliniek and Zusterhuis, located at BG-13 and BG-14.
The new library, designed by architect firms MVSA and Van Stigt, will have 950 study places, 80 work spaces, study and lecture rooms, seminar rooms, bicycle storage in the basement and ‘seven kilometres of books’, the UvA writes on its website. All of this will be spread over two buildings connected by a glass roof. The library should be completed in 2021.
Geert ten Dam, president of the Board of the University, is happy construction can finally start. ‘It’s a beautiful design – all the different functions of a modern library come together very well. I think the new University Library will become the heart of the city centre campus.’
Residents
The decision was taken upon consultation of the academic community, an external urban architect, a focus group, the Central Works Council and the Central Student Council. The VOLBG residents’ committee is, however, disappointed with the verdict. ‘The UvA ignored hundreds of residents in the process of the decision making,’ it said in a statement. The UvA responded that it will talk again with local residents.
