Lleida University Library and Cultural Centre

The Library project was initiated to celebrate the 700th anniversary of the University of Lleida in Catalonia, Spain. The scheme is based on the winning entry to an international competition in 1996. The Library is expected to become the emblematic building of the new campus which is currently under construction. The campus is located on the left bank of the river Segre in proximity of the city centre. The L-shaped complex in the corner of the new quarter will serve as an entrance to the university. The pedestrian route from the city centre bridges over the river to the campus area. The route focuses under the large atrium which will serve as a sheltered meeting point of the academic community and the society at large. The skewed corner of the building serves to emphasize the diagonal pedestrian flow to and from the campus. The atrium with its tall steel columns is a reference to the antique roots of science. The building totalling 12 500 m² includes not only library facilities, but a cultural centre with a 325-seat auditorium. The cylindrical volume of the auditorium extends from the main body of the building into a reflecting pool. The building is composed of three stories above street entrance level, plus a basement floor which opens out at ground level on the campus side. Above ground floor level it divides into two separate masses unified by the outdoor atrium space and high-level canopy seamless with the roofs of the building masses.The library, situated in the main building mass, is a three-storey open space stepped with overlooking galleries; teaching facilities to the rear form a study unit with independent access. A shop selling study material and stationary, a cafeteria, restaurant, conference facilities and premises for scientific societies are located in the second building mass. Great emphasis is given to provide the interiors with ample and diffused daylight whilst providing shelter from the merciless sun of the arid Lleida region. Because of its special nature, the project has required financial support from the District of Lleida, Lleida City Council and from private sources.