Offer to alumni to contribute to a unique library environment
The desks and chairs are the originals from 1917 and 1945 and in surprisingly good condition, but in need of renovation. Photo: Magnus Hjalmarsson
Many people remember their studies in Uppsala fondly and would like to get involved in various ways in the University’s development as alumni. In connection with the renovation of the University Library Carolina Rediviva’s oldest reading rooms, there is an opportunity for alumni and others to contribute to the renovation of the original furniture in the rooms through the fundraising appeal “Traces of Knowledge”.
Johanna Hansson, Library Director at Uppsala University Library. Photo: Magnus Hjalmarsson
Carolina Rediviva has undergone several major renovations in recent years. The entrance hall, exhibition spaces and a new restaurant were opened in 2019, and this summer the two large reading rooms A and B are in line for restoration. The roughly 120 study spaces in these rooms are used by researchers and students but also by citizen scientists and visiting researchers from different countries.
“We know that the Library and Carolina Rediviva’s cultural heritage have a lot of support in the community. The desks and chairs are the originals from 1917 and 1945 and in surprisingly good condition, but in need of renovation. Many have used these desks and chairs in the study spaces and have their own memories of the atmosphere, so it's our belief that there is an interest in contributing to the renovation among our alumni,” says Johanna Hansson, Library Director at Uppsala University Library.
Preserve the historic milieus
The renovation of the reading rooms themselves will be financed by the National Property Board of Sweden, while the University is responsible for the costs of renovating their fittings. Through this fundraising appeal, targeting mainly the University’s alumni, the University hopes to be able to restore the 120 tables and 55 chairs to their former glory. The aim is to preserve the historic milieus of Carolina Rediviva’s oldest reading rooms for future generations.
“This furniture has great value for the cultural heritage of the Library and we would like future researchers and students to also have the chance to work in this environment, which is steeped in tradition. It also feels very good to be able to renovate instead of buying new furniture,” says Johanna Hansson.
Anneli Waara