The library viewed by the architect: construction spaces as tools for public relation

Abstract

The task of the recent generál reconstruction and expansion of the central building of the Budapest Ervin Szabó Library in one of the most beautiful old aristocratic palaces in the heart of Hungary's capital was to create a city library with features that are up to date in sizes, functions and services as well as open to any modification. A neighbouring reconstructed old building was added to the luxurious palace on its one side, and a new 8-storey building to the other. The three buildings have a total space of 13,200 square metres and a capac-ity of up to 1,100,000 volumes. The centre of the new library is an átrium that serves as a „meeting point" of the past, present and future for readers. On the lowerfloors are found the spacious lending and reference services while the upper floors give place to the repository and the processing offices. A children's library was alsó constructed, with appropriate decoration. The reading rooms in the palace wing preserved its original beauty. The 3-year reconstruction of the library was over in September 2001.