In recent years, the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has reviewed its library operations and decided to develop the existing library premises in Ultuna for new ways of working. Through a renovation and extension, a modern library is now being created with more student and collaboration areas where students, researchers and staff can meet and socialize, and that SLU's need for more rooms for digital exams is met.
"The role of libraries has changed today. This project is particularly fun because we reuse our existing premises and take advantage of ideas from the business. This renovation makes it possible for us to create not only attractive study environments, but also an inspiring meeting place," says Maria Knutson Wedel, Vice-Chancellor of SLU.
Strengthen the attractiveness of the building and campus area
The current library, with a total gross area of 6,500 square meters, was built in 1970 and plays a major role in the architectural expression of the campus. The surfaces are now being rebuilt at the same time as the building is supplemented with an extension of about 400 square meters in the form of a covered courtyard. With the renovation, the premises will open up as most rooms and office rooms will become open study areas. The covered courtyard, Lyktan, will be used as a book hall with social areas that make it possible to arrange lectures such as book releases and authors' evenings.
"By gathering several functions in the same building, the library will become a natural and appreciated hub in the middle of campus. Converting and adding to an existing building is a sustainable way for Akademiska Hus to use our existing property portfolio instead of building new, something that is of paramount importance if we are to achieve our goal of becoming climate neutral. says Anna Alsborger, Property Director at Akademiska Hus.
The renovation and extension are planned to begin in April 2025 and be completed in December 2026. During the course of the project, Akademiska Hus is also carrying out maintenance measures regarding facades, roofs, heating and plumbing trunks and switching to LED lighting.