Pontifical Lateran University Library
Biblioteca dell'Università Pontificia Lateranense
The Pontifical Lateran University Library in Rome is a stunning modern library extension with a large collection of books and publications. Its sleek design and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for book lovers and history enthusiasts. Don't miss out on this architectural wonder and treasure trove of knowledge on your trip to Rome.
Welcome to the Pontifical Lateran University Library in Rome! This extraordinary library is a must-visit destination for book lovers and those interested in exploring the rich history and culture of Rome. Designed with the goal of making reading and book consultation the central focus of the university, this new extension is a modern and captivating addition to the campus.
As you enter the library from the first floor corridor, you'll descend a flight of basalt stairs into a spacious foyer. Here, you'll find a locker room, computer indexes, a card index, a professors reading room, and a librarians posting. The interior design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with an articulated table and mahogany block-wood reading tables. The ambient lighting creates a cozy atmosphere for diving into the vast collection of books.
The heart of the library lies in the six floors of book stacks housed in a fire-protected tower. Connected by sloping ramps, these book stacks showcase approximately 70,000 volumes and 750 publications. The design of the book stacks themselves is ingenious, with low shelves to avoid the use of ladders and an illusion of floating volumes created by irregular cuts in the façade. These ramps, serving as reading rooms, are leveled with mahogany platforms and provide a peaceful and serene environment for studying and research.
The library's presence is felt throughout the university, with viewing cones created by the strategic positioning of windows and apertures closed with fire glass. This integration adds a touch of modernity to the existing architecture while still maintaining a sense of harmony with the surrounding buildings.
During your visit, make sure to explore the restored main assembly hall, which has been updated to meet modern safety and comfort standards. This hall features projection facilities, sound diffusion, and acoustic control, making it an ideal space for lectures and conferences. The redesign also prioritizes safety aisles and includes a new false ceiling and side wall paneling.
Whether you are a student, a researcher, or simply a lover of books, a visit to the Pontifical Lateran University Library is a journey into the world of knowledge and exploration. With its modern design, captivating atmosphere, and extensive collection, this library offers a unique experience for all who appreciate the power of literature and learning.
Tips and Tricks
- Plan your visit ahead of time to ensure you have enough time to explore the library and its collections.
- Take advantage of the serene and peaceful environment in the reading rooms for studying and research.
- Don't miss the suspended volumes and play of light and shade in the library's design, which make for stunning photo opportunities.
- Look for the viewing cones formed by window reveals to catch glimpses of the library's presence from various viewpoints within the university.
- Take advantage of the amenities offered in the spacious foyer, such as locker rooms, computer indexes, card catalogs, a professors reading room, and a librarians' posting area.
- Enjoy the unique layout of the library with sloping ramps connecting every two floors of book stacks.
- Appreciate the low book stacks that eliminate the need for ladders, making it easier to access books.
- Take breaks in the reading rooms provided on the ramps, which offer mahogany platforms with reading tables at each level change.
- Admire the beautiful mahogany block-wood reading tables that also serve as up-lights for atmospheric lighting in the library.
- If you have the opportunity, attend a conference or lecture in the library's main assembly hall, which offers state-of-the-art facilities.
- Don't forget to appreciate the architectural wonder of the Pontifical Lateran University Library, a true treasure trove of knowledge.
The Pontifical Lateran University Library in Rome, Italy is open from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
The Pontifical Lateran University Library in Rome, Italy is an ideal place to visit during the spring season when the weather is pleasant, allowing visitors to explore the library's collection while also enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the city.
The entry fee for the Pontifical Lateran University Library in Rome, Italy is €5.
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