ROTTERDAM, 17 May 2023 – The blueprint for the anticipated transformation of the Central Library in Rotterdam has been formally delivered to the city council, ushering in the next phase of this multimillion-euro project.
Provisional plans for the Rotterdam Library remodel
The Central Library is the primary location among the 21 branches of the Rotterdam Library. After nearly 40 years of heavy use, the current Central Library, which opened in 1983, is in dire need of renewal. The provisional blueprint comprises two segments: the remodel of the Central Library on Hoogstraat, and the interim housing on Librijesteeg. The city council is to decide on availing the required investments amounting to 160 million Euros. Following this decision, the preliminary design will be developed into a final design.
Collaborative effort and community involvement
Rotterdam Library and Rotterdam Municipality are actively collaborating throughout the process. Stakeholder organisations, library patrons, and city dwellers have also been encouraged to share their thoughts through city dialogues.
The final design of the temporary housing is expected to be ready by the coming autumn, and the final design of the revamped Central Library by the end of the year.
Revamp of Rotterdam Central Library: Provisional design revealed
Revamp of Rotterdam Central Library: Provisional design revealed
Revamp of Rotterdam Central Library: Provisional design revealed
Creating a city living room
The design team from Powerhouse Company, Atelier Oslo, and Lundhagem has outlined the new Central Library based on last year's sketch design, to which Rotterdammers contributed.
Sustainable design
Sustainability is a key aspect of the new design, with the reuse of the concrete structure preventing substantial amounts of CO2 emissions.
Temporary housing on Librijesteeg
During the library's renovation phase, from autumn 2025 to autumn 2028, the library will be housed in the municipal office building on Librijesteeg 4.
Information market on 13 June 2023
The city council, upon reception of the blueprint, is expected to deliberate on it before the summer. It is noted that residents interested in the renovation are welcomed to view the project at an information market hosted in the library on Tuesday, 13 June, from 4 pm to 8 pm. An information market will be held at the Central Library on Tuesday, 13 June for anyone interested in the provisional design.
Visiting the Rotterdam Central Library
The Central Library is located on Hoogstraat. The temporary housing during the renovation will be at Librijesteeg 4, about 200 meters walking distance from the current location.
