Linking the past to the future

A few minutes walking distance from the first 18th century settlement in Kuwait, with several preserved mosques in the vicinity and the Sief Palace complex up front, Kuwait’s new National Library in the Jibla district couldn’t find a better location. Today, the library counts as the nation’s most important informational, cultural and educational resource, but seen in context; it is also a link between Kuwait’s past and its future.

The building’s area is about 22,000 m2, spread over on six floors, two underground and four above. The atrium, a mezzanine level and interior bridges in combination with a coffered ceiling design that features an eight-sided star clerestory, give the library a light and open character.

The library collections are arranged in Gothia steel shelving with stained wooden fronts and end panels.