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Campus Development Campus Development

The new University Library: a challenging construction project

15 May 2025

The new University Library (UB) progressed into its final construction phase earlier this month. The building is currently being furnished and the inventory will be moved during the summer. After many years of renovation, only a few months remain in the countdown to completion, with the building finally opening its doors to students, professors and researchers on 1 September. Although the construction process faced many challenges over the years, the hard work has certainly paid off. This unique building is an important addition to the University Quarter.

Biggest challenges

The University Library is to be a significant step into the future for the UvA – but realising the project also demanded considerable steps to be taken along the way. Effectively organising an enterprise of this scope in the middle of a historic part of the city is, in itself, a major challenge. Factor in the area’s logistic challenges, construction of the foundations and bicycle cellar, and the desire to reduce the carbon footprint, and you’ve got a very complex puzzle on your hands. ‘It’s one of the best things I’ve experienced at the UvA, but also one of the hardest,’ says Vice-President of the Executive Board Jan Lintsen. In the end, however, the challenges proved to be complex but not impossible; after many years of renovation, the end is now in sight. 

University Quarter asset 

The building comprises two listed buildings: the Tweede Chirurgische Kliniek (the former Second Surgical Clinic) and the Zusterhuis (Nurses’ Quarters). From the 19th century on, these buildings were incorporated into the ‘Binnengasthuis’, the hospital complex that lent its name to the street on which it stands. And now, in the 21st century, a brand new building has arisen to form a new complex linking the new atrium, basement and a new wing together: a new, modern UB. Each of these components has to some extent kept its original public function, and still fulfils an important role in the area. ‘We are working on establishing a lively, liveable city centre through the Aanpak Binnenstad (City Centre Approach). And this building, together with all its students, contributes towards this goal in a very positive way,’ says Amélie Strens, says Amélie Strens, managing director of the Amsterdam Centre district committee at the municipality of Amsterdam. 

Video: The making of the New University Library – episode 2

Curious about the construction challenges we faced? Or about the collaboration with the municipality and the Faculty of Humanities? Watch this video to find out more.