University of Edinburgh Library, George Square

Category

Library Item

Item no

8696

Title

University of Edinburgh Library, George Square, entrance stair

Artist / maker

Jackman, S. G.

Date

1968

Size

19.5 x 24.7 cm

Type

Photograph

Location

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

The Main Library is situated on the south west corner of George Square, chosen because this was the quietest section of the square. Opened in 1967, the eight storey building was designed by Sir Basil Spence. The horizontal library exterior is deliberately designed to look like a bookcase; the architecture features brutalist elements but also clear oriental features. The exterior columns on the north side feature bracketing and are non-weight bearing in what may be seen as a humorous stab at the movements at the time following the principle that architecture must be truthful and form must follow function. Upon opening, it was the largest university library in the UK, with each floor an acre in size.

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Related subjects

Architecture > Architectural features > Pillars

Architecture > Architectural features > Stairways

Education > Educational facilities > Universities and colleges

Places > Edinburgh areas > Southside

Places > Edinburgh Landmarks > University of Edinburgh

Places > Scotland > Edinburgh

Sport and leisure > Culture > Libraries

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