The building of UT Library celebrates its 40th birthday

The UT Library building, which was opened in 1982, celebrates its 40th birthday today. Designed by the architects Kalju Valdre and Mart Kalling in the neo-functionalist style, the building immediately became the students’ most favourite place to study.

Although the library was thoroughly renovated 4 years ago, the interior still looks familiar to the people who studied here in the 1980s. “Large reading rooms were just something unbelievable at that time,” recalls UT Library Director Krista Aru. “You could come here, take the books you needed from the shelves and sit down to study for the exams – what else could a young person dream about at that time!”

One of the symbols of the library, the large chandelier in the lobby, is remembered by all visitors. The wooden panels on the walls of the third floor reading rooms and 500 skylight domes on the roof are also here since 1982, when the library was opened.

Much work can be done with the computers today, and the number of students who study in the library has decreased when compared with the times of forty years ago, but Aru firmly believes that the library still has its role and it attracts young people with the atmosphere of its environment. “Library has continued to be the place where people meet – university and high school students come for group work, lecturers and students meet to discuss their theses and prepare for their exams. You can come alone or with friends, you can study here, but also read newspapers and journals, visit exhibitions and listen to operas. Our library is open and welcomes all.”

To mark the festive day, the Rector’s Office will hold its meeting in the library today.

All visitors can take pictures in front of the brand new photo backdrop. And everyone can write down good wishes to the library on the wish tree on the other side of the backdrop. Visitors can find other small surprises in the library today.