Hidden within the heart of Amsterdam lies a treasure trove of knowledge. The Amsterdam University Library stands proudly on Singel 425. Its history stretches back to 1578. That year saw the amalgamation of books and manuscripts from former Catholic institutions. This formed the basis of a city library open to all.
The Amsterdam University Library wasn’t always located here. It initially resided in the Nieuwe Kerk. Later it moved to the Agnietenkapel’s attic. The library’s collection grew substantially. It outgrew its space in the Agnietenkapel which was in disrepair. The collection was housed in multiple locations until 1881. Then it found a new home in the Handboogdoelen at Singel 421. This was once home to the Long-bow militia. Restoration work in 1968 revealed some of the original 16th-century building. It showed the library contains some of the city’s oldest masonry. A late medieval mantelpiece fireplace also survived.
The Amsterdam University Library expanded further. Buildings at Handboogstraat 16 and 18 were added in 1919. During World War II the building at Singel 423 was incorporated. Queen Wilhelmina herself granted permission for this addition. The building’s facade dates back to 1609 thanks to Hendrick de Keyser. It was once the town arsenal and later the royal stables.
The main building at Singel 425 is a product of the 1960s. It stands on the site of the Arbalest Militia’s premises. Before that it was home to the 19th-century Catholic St Catherine’s church. The church was demolished in 1939. The plot remained empty until the new building designed by architect Jan Leupen was erected. This modern building perfectly exemplifies 1960s architecture.
The Amsterdam University Library’s Special Collections are housed nearby. They reside in two adjacent buildings on Oude Turfmarkt. One dates back to 1642 designed by Philips Vingboons. The other was built between 1842 and 1843. It was formerly St Bernardus mental home. The buildings underwent restoration work starting in 2004. Queen Beatrix officially opened the Special Collections library in May 2007. The Amsterdam University Library today holds an incredible four million volumes. Its collection includes the Bibliotheca Rosenthaliana. This remarkable collection focuses on Jewish cultural history. Miraculously much of this collection survived World War II. It was hidden in the Artis Library at Natura Artis Magistra Amsterdam zoo.
The Amsterdam University Library isn’t merely a repository of books. It’s a living testament to Amsterdam’s rich history. It’s a place where scholars and researchers delve into centuries of knowledge. A place where the past illuminates the present shaping the future. It’s a place of discovery waiting to be explored. Step inside the Amsterdam University Library and lose yourself in the wonders within.