The building
TU Delft Library has become a place for study, research and the exchange of knowledge. With inspiring spaces, places to relax and stimulating activities, emphasizing the fact that we at the university Library are embracing the future and that we are an indispensable link between education and research.
Design by Mecanoo
The unique building of TU Delft Library is a design by Mecanoo architects. The enormous cone symbolises technology and providing room for the round, introvert study spaces. The immense book wall, stretching from ground level up to the fourth floor, is not only functional, but also gives the building a unique look. Thanks to the insulating grass roof, the Library is actually not only a building, but also a landscape
The TU Delft Library was one of the first construction projects in the Netherlands to be designed on the basis of a comprehensive vision of sustainability and innovation. The building comprises three important ‘green elements’: the grass roof, the cold and heat storage and climate façades.
We do not have ugly cooling machines on the roof. Our cold storage is in the groundwater. This keeps our building nice and cool or warm, whichever the need. This technology is energy saving. The only exception is our study hall, where the heat coming off the computers is so high, that it requires extra cooling. That is why this hall is situated on the north side and has an almost invisible cooling ceiling.
The façades have double glass walls through which air is circulated. In winter, the offices remain comfortably warm, and in summer, pleasantly cool. This eliminates the need for façade radiators and allows workspaces to be positioned directly against the glass façade. This also results in efficient use of space.
Guided tours
If you would like to become better acquainted with the TU Delft Library building, we provide guided tours for groups of users and associates of the Library. These are arranged by appointment at least two weeks in advance. You will be given a guided tour of the Library facilities by one of our staff, who will explain the digital and other services that the Library offers. There are no guided tours during examination periods or in the summer. The guided tours are given in Dutch or English.
Special guided tours
If you would like to have a guided tour focusing on a specific subject, we can arrange a special customised guided tour.
Guided tours for architects
Groups of architects who wish to take a look at the building, can be given a guided tour by the architects firm Mecanoo. This guided tour focuses on the construction and design of the building. For details, contact Mecanoo.