Finally I had some free time to visit this 60,000 sqm library.......:yes:

Here are some pictures (didn't take a lot cos i was rushing for time.....maybe the other forumers can fill in those pictures i missed....:D )

The Podium on the first floor

http://img314.imageshack.us/img314/9708/pic0346715kp.jpg

http://img314.imageshack.us/img314/669/pic0347018xr.jpg

http://img314.imageshack.us/img314/1492/pic0347112na.jpg

http://img314.imageshack.us/img314/1729/pic0347213wv.jpg

Wall Art
http://img314.imageshack.us/img314/5470/pic0346814gg.jpg

More pictures coming up......:yes:

The lift lobby
http://img308.imageshack.us/img308/608/pic0344418sq.jpg

Connectors between 2 separate building in the library
http://img350.imageshack.us/img350/9813/pic0344511qa.jpg

Sky garden with a small stage
http://img350.imageshack.us/img350/7056/pic0345415xx.jpg

babystan!! ahhh! finally cool!:)
looks very nice:yes:

so the opening was today?..did you borrow any books meh?:)

babystan!! ahhh! finally cool!:)
looks very nice:yes:

so the opening was today?..did you borrow any books meh?:)

It's opened yesterday.......:yes:

Didn't borrow any books.......but took sometime to read some......the books was rather new......:yes:

Looks lovely! Wish I could get well soon. What are the booths for?

Looks lovely! Wish I could get well soon. What are the booths for?

Selling some finger food and some are used by republic poly for displaying their works.....:yes:

U can't bring your bag into the library itself(the part where all the books are)......no photography also.......althought they won't know if u bring a small camera(in your pocket)......oh well......:yes:

no free ice-cream? ;) btw, any pictures of the library interior like bookshelves, lounge, the layout etc? Also, not many people today. probably due to rain.

Edit: I see. no wonder no interior pictures.

no free ice-cream? ;) btw, any pictures of the library interior like bookshelves, lounge, the layout etc? Also, not many people today. probably due to rain.

Edit: I see. no wonder no interior pictures.

Free ice cream?? haha.....no.....:D

The interior pictures is only possible with a slim pocket camera.....maybe Raffie can help us take a few of those interior pictures.....:D

I think the next best thing is to have a sheltered walkway from National Library to Bugis Junction or a underground pass to Museum/Bugis Station. That way, library visitorship wouldn't be affected by rainy days :)

Not to disappoint.....maybe this 2 "interior" picture can help quench the thirst a bit.....hehe.....:D

New Drama Centre (not open it seems)
http://img343.imageshack.us/img343/7883/pic0344217uj.jpg

Exhibition area beside the sky garden
http://img343.imageshack.us/img343/2637/pic0346610ua.jpg

Drama Centre seems rather "open". Those columns in the exhibition area would look nicer if they are "wrapped" like those in T2.

hmmm... maybe, the library should implement a dress code. I see someone in slippers?

Drama Centre seems rather "open". Those columns in the exhibition area would look nicer if they are "wrapped" like those in T2.

hmmm... maybe, the library should implement a dress code. I see someone in slippers?

Dun think they'll implement dress code.......if not those living at bras basah would have to dress up everytime they visit the library next door.....:lol:

wah no bags allowed inside? so if you need get something then u need go all the way down and back up again??!!

wah no bags allowed inside? so if you need get something then u need go all the way down and back up again??!!

Emm...nope....they provide locker at every level.......:yes:

One funny thing happen when i took this intercontinental hotel picture from the sky garden from the new library......a couple standing near me, said, " aiyo...no privacy....".....:lol:

http://img306.imageshack.us/img306/1425/pic0345312jc.jpg

The interior pictures is only possible with a slim pocket camera.....maybe Raffie can help us take a few of those interior pictures.....:D

unless they dont have metal X-ray checks, like at the new Supreme Court... :lol:

anyway great pics..looks very exciting..I would wanna go and check it out too!

hmm..I think the library shouldnt have a dress code (or do other libraries have it) ?

any views from the library?

unless they dont have metal X-ray checks, like at the new Supreme Court... :lol:

anyway great pics..looks very exciting..I would wanna go and check it out too!

hmm..I think the library shouldnt have a dress code (or do other libraries have it) ?

any views from the library?

Dun think they have.......only those scans that check if u steal a book or not.....:lol:

Here's some views......:D

http://img333.imageshack.us/img333/6299/pic0345014kw.jpg

http://img333.imageshack.us/img333/1969/pic0345915er.jpg

looks like a great way to view the Gateway now :yes:

I remember there was some kinda roof-deck on the 15th floor outside the Pod...hopefully that can be accessed :D

looks like a great way to view the Gateway now :yes:

I remember there was some kinda roof-deck on the 15th floor outside the Pod...hopefully that can be accessed :D

Unfortunately, i think they dun allow the public to go up from 10th floor onwards...I saw someone stopped by the security who try to go up the escalator from the 10th floor.......:yes::bash:

just came back and take many pictures :D WILL UPLOAD

COMING SOON ;)

Green and bear it

23 Jul 05

The National Library's 14 gardens are part of its award-winning green features, but only four are open to the public. What a pity

By Tay Suan Chiang

VISITORS to the newly opened National Library could be forgiven for thinking they have stumbled into The Secret Garden by Francis Hodgson Burnett.


The building in Victoria Street has 14 pockets of greenery located up and down its 16 floors and basement.

The gardens, with vegetation forming 35 per cent of the total site area, provide a relaxing respite from the endless bookshelves and all that reading.

A pity then that only four of the 14 are open to the public.

'The gardens were mainly to help keep the building cool. That is why not all are open to the public,' says Mr Surjit Singh, the library's director of properties and facilities management.

The four gardens that are open to the public are: The sky garden on Level 5; spa garden on Level 10; and two within the Central Lending Library in Basement 1.


Even then, the two in the basement are accessible only during certain times, such as when the library holds literature and poetry reading sessions outdoors.

One of these features sculptures by local artist Chong Fah Cheong that were commissioned for the library. The sculptures sit against a backdrop of 5,000 bricks salvaged from the remnants of the old Stamford Road library.

The gardens on levels 5 and 10 are the only two with free access during library hours.

The one on Level 10 is the most impressive. The space - soaring to a height of three storeys - features seven 12m-tall plant towers for growing multiple plants in vertical stacks.

In keeping with its theme as a spa garden, you can find plants such as aloe vera as well as pebbled paths for those seeking a spot of reflexology.

Landscaping for the 14 gardens was done by landscape consultants DLQ Design, while maintenance will be by landscaping company Eco Flora.


Mark of success

All in, a total of 120 species of tropical plants helps to lower the temperature surrounding the building and reduce the load on air-conditioning.

So, it is no surprise that the building was designed by Malaysian architecture firm T R Hamzah and Yeang, which is known for its climate-sensitive projects.

Malaysian architect Ken Yeang, who designed this library, has a reputation for using plants both inside and outside his buildings.


For him, plants are not just decorative items but essential in helping to make a building more eco-friendly.


One of his most famous works is the Menara Mesiniaga Building in Selangor, which has segments cut out of several floors to insert high-rise gardens.

The gardens in the new library are just part of other eco-conscious features which won it the Platinum Award for the Green Mark Scheme. The award, by the Building and Construction Authority, is its highest for environmentally friendly buildings here.

One of these energy-saving features is the use of automatic blinds that are lowered in the late afternoon when the sun's rays into the building are strongest.

Others include shade fins all around its facade to keep the sun off its wide glass windows; daylight sensors that dim or switch off the lights when there is enough natural light; and rain sensors that shut off garden sprinklers when there is enough water for the plants.

Even the building is built off the sun's east-west path and the atrium spaces are located to channel breezes using natural ventilation.

Still, it may be the spa garden that is the big attraction for visitors.

Housewife Susie Lee, 35, was excited when she heard about it. She says: 'After shopping at Parco Bugis Junction opposite and borrowing my books, I can still get a foot reflexology session at the library.'

Actually, Mrs Lee, the lending section of the new library has fewer books than the old one. Then again, the latter didn't have a reflexology path, did it?

SOME LIBRARY INTERIOR

the information counter

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01615.jpg

the open plaza

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01611.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01610.jpg

the lift lobby in basement

http://img55.imageshack.us/img55/2677/dsc016190hw.jpg

the open garden:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01597.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01598.jpg

the view:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01599.jpg

look at how crowded is it

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01617.jpg

watching exhibition

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01596.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01600.jpg

the design:

http://img55.imageshack.us/img55/4463/dsc016201bq.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01605.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01612.jpg

playin free computer in Multimedia corner

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01609.jpg

the shelf:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01608.jpg

the bridge:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01606.jpg

some pics they put :

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01604.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01603.jpg

guess what hya ideas has been put on library (reflections!)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01601.jpg

exterior

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01594.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01654.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/encon/DSC01651.jpg

reflection NLB on NLB :

http://img55.imageshack.us/img55/1778/dsc016149qw.jpg

http://img55.imageshack.us/img55/5120/dsc016138dn.jpg

not bad. Quite a number of nice interior pictures... though some are similar to Stan's :)

The NLB could add more cushion benches at the side of the window panels similar to Borders.

I am surprised that the use of Multimedia Stations is free. Thanks encon for the pictures. :)

New NLB looks very interesting. I need to go visit one of these days. :)

Thanks stan & encon for the pics.

it sure is cool nova!...im a library person,can sit in a library and read mags the whole day without getting tierd (i am a slacker you know;) :) ).

thanks for the pictures:yes:

great pics encon!

seems very exciting..seems so much more fun than a library :D

it also looks very noisy

A library is always fun, to those who have a love for reading.

for some reason I've always found it hard to concentrate in a library... LOL

anyways.....

for some reason I've always found it hard to concentrate in a library... LOL

anyways.....

why is that raffie?..i cant concentrate at home..i will be stuck infront of the TV:)

why is that raffie?..i cant concentrate at home..i will be stuck infront of the TV:)

me too :D

LIKE NOW watching Tv also playing com :D

2 IN 1 !!

me too :D

LIKE NOW watching Tv also playing com :D

2 IN 1 !!

hehe cool..multitasking...:D :) ;)

@drwho

dunno..I tend to be distracted by people heh :D

hehe cool..multitasking...:D :) ;)


guess what tomorrow Chinese Test !!

still doing this 2 in 1 hahahaha :D :rofl:

guess what tomorrow Chinese Test !!

still doing this 2 in 1 hahahaha :D :rofl:

omg :lol:
all things at once.study,,computing,,tv..i wish i could do that to:)

Why not open all gardens???? :bash::(

26 July 2005

Lee Kong Chian Reference Library receives 33,000 visitors on opening day
By Johnson Choo, Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE : The Lee Kong Chian Reference Library in the spanking new National Library building received some 33,000 visitors when it opened on July 22.

The Central Lending Library also recorded some 12,500 visits.

While visitors could browse through the library's extensive collection, there are areas in the library that most would never get to see.

What has a lighting show got to do with a library? Well, everything... especially when the Drama Centre is within the new National Library Building.

While stage performances can whet the appetites of theatre-lovers, the 50,000 reference collection will thrill book-lovers.

The Lee Kong Chian Reference Library, like many other parts of the library, is opened to the public.

However, there are some areas where only staff have access, and members of public will never get to visit.

Located at the top of the 16-storey building is an Observatory Pod - an area reserved only for functions and library events.

Two floors down is the Library's Corporate Headquarters housing some its administrative staff.

On either side of the floor are two gardens where only staff have access.

And in a corner is the Chief Executive's office where there is a meeting space and a glass door access to the garden.

Dr N. Varaprasad, Chief Executive of the NLB, said: "I have to admit because we are on the 14th floor, I have a nice view. But I have to admit that I have to share my toilet facilities with all my other staff, and queue up just like everyone else."

And in terms of furnishings, he feels his office would score a five out of 10. - CNA/de

Copyright © 2005 MCN International Pte Ltd

Very nice!! Looks big!

I visited the Library today! :colgate:

But, frankly... too much space now... kept going up the escalator from one floor to another. The lift is very fast from 14th storey to B1 (there were 4 young girls in the lift squeaking with excitement as the lift zooms... duh...) But waiting for it is slooooow... :p

Only books at B1 can be borrowed... :p

Nice to hear that the life is very fast :yes:

this is taken in excitement... so... :colgate:

http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/2040/p10103778xg.jpg

LOL

funky pano

I guess I would be excited with such a novel view and the feeling of large space :cool:

LOL....

Like mosiac or collage..... :D

yar... I was taking the pictures and walking up the stairs at the same time... that explains the different leveling towards the right. ;)

hmm..what time does the library close at night?

I imagine the views of fireworks there would be awesome.

hmm..what time does the library close at night?

I imagine the views of fireworks there would be awesome.

hehe... you want to take picture in there ah? Actually, photography not allowed in the library unless authorised. ;)

Opening Hours
Mon - Sun : 10.00am - 9.00pm

Closed at 5.00pm on eve of Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year
Closed on Public Holidays

oh..typical library hours then..Zzzzzz

Ask the librains.... ;)

hehe... you want to take picture in there ah? Actually, photography not allowed in the library unless authorised. ;)

Opening Hours
Mon - Sun : 10.00am - 9.00pm

Closed at 5.00pm on eve of Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year
Closed on Public Holidays

reall cannot take pictures ?? lucky take some already ! :)

I like the new library, I haven't been in yet but when I get some time I'm going to go in and have a look around and hopefully get a look at those great views!

Hya> cool & funny pano:yes: :)

I visited the Library today! :colgate:

But, frankly... too much space now... kept going up the escalator from one floor to another. The lift is very fast from 14th storey to B1 (there were 4 young girls in the lift squeaking with excitement as the lift zooms... duh...) But waiting for it is slooooow... :p

Only books at B1 can be borrowed... :p

I think i visited it 3 times already.....:lol: Still rather excited about it.....:D

30 July 2005

Acclaimed artist Tan Swie Hian donates books, art pieces to library
By Ho Li Fen/Joanne Leow, Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE : Award winning local artist Tan Swie Hian has donated some 6,500 art books and manuscripts, and a dozen or so art pieces to the National Library.

The Tan Swie Hian Library Collection will be displayed at the new National Library Building at Victoria Street.

The celebrated artist says he hopes to share his love for art with the public in this way.

A lot of the personal collection started from the artist's secondary school days.

The Cultural Medallion winner has been collecting the books and manuscripts for some 40 years now.

And he hopes to share the treasure trove of knowledge with the public.

Said Mr Tan, "I want to share what has inspired me with the public. If you hold on to a flower only you can enjoy its fragrance, but if you pass it on then many others can enjoy it."

He says reading has played a large part in his artistic works and he hopes to inspire young artists with his collection.

Said Mr Tan, "When you open a book it's as if your consciousness interacts with those who came before you. For instance when I was young, I saw a piece of art but I didn't know who had created it, but somehow it has remained an inspiration to me my entire life."

The artist says every book and art piece in this collection has a story behind it, and he hopes to continue add to the collection. – CNA /ct

Copyright © 2005 MCN International Pte Ltd

i like the redness of the drama centre and the table/chair/carpet combination at the study areas. however i think the bookshelves are somewhat ugly :( the views are gorgeous, and the sky gardens are lush (especially just after a storm). what was unacceptable though was the absence of paper towels in the washrooms. i mean like this is a LIBRARY, you can't expect people to wash their hands and leave them wet?! overall i think its ok lar

I think i visited it 3 times already.....:lol: Still rather excited about it.....:D

babystan,,you are a library-addict? :) :D

babystan,,you are a library-addict? :) :D

Haha....not really.....just showing my friend around.....:D

Haha....not really.....just showing my friend around.....:D

wow~ may be u should request the NLB to start some tour NLB thingy... then have urself volunteering to bring people around...haha...

wow~ may be u should request the NLB to start some tour NLB thingy... then have urself volunteering to bring people around...haha...

I dun mind if I have time and they pay me.....:lol:

So cool! Where is the new library,babystan03?

So cool! Where is the new library,babystan03?

Opposite Bugis Junction......:yes:

I dun mind if I have time and they pay me.....:lol:

maybe you can get ice cream as pay :) :D ;)

New National Library a gem of a place

2 Aug 05

By Koh Buck Song
For The Straits Times

THE new National Library is a joy, and poised to become a jewel. From afar, it has added tremendous interest to the Singapore skyline. Rising up right next to one of the oldest public housing blocks, it presents a juxtaposition of the past and the future. And the latter is brilliant.

http://straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/mnt/media/image/launched/2005-08-02/21a.jpg


From within, it has literally opened up new vistas. All-glass windows offer a splendid view of the waterfront and out to Indonesia. The best view of Orchard Road is from the gents' restroom on the top level 16, where the futuristic 'pod' space can be rented for book launches and other events.

In her speech at the library's re-opening a week ago, National Library Board chairman Lim Soo Hoon quoted Cicero, the ancient Roman statesman and scholar, who said: 'If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need.' How true. And how Singapore, in typical innovative style, has updated these two essential items of life. This library not only provides access to books of traditional bound paper, but is also the key to the Internet universe, now the 'virtual library' Cicero would have wanted too, were he still alive. And its gardens are nearly all high-rise, surprising and refreshing the visitor in little unexpected corners.

Enabling Singaporeans to live out Cicero's philosophy would be one huge step forward in society's maturing towards the 'nirvana of civilisation' - to be at one with nature and human nature.

Interestingly, only two of the building's 14 gardens are open to the public, on levels 5 and 10. Some, unfortunately, abide by the policy summed up in the informal Singaporean expression: 'See, no touch.'

I was especially intrigued by the garden beyond locked glass doors at the basement lending library, with interspersed sculptures of children reading books and stylised animal figures with the word 'read' carved onto them.

This is a pity, after Colombian sculptor Fernando Botero's massive works that were recently exhibited publicly around Singapore had survived, showing that the risk of damage to such artworks is more than bearable.

It reminds me of other public works of sculpture that could do with more interaction with people, such as the huge statues of Confucius and other figures of Chinese history and mythology at Marina South park, that hardly anyone talks about. How much better, if there were no barriers between man and a potential muse?

In the rest of the building, the library is set to change Singaporean culture in subtle ways. Some visitors so far may have been surprised that the new library is mostly for reference. Only one of its 16 floors - the basement - houses books that can be borrowed. This major difference from the other branch libraries could foster an adjustment in the way Singaporeans treat the whole activity of reading. In a nutshell, this new library makes real the difference between reading as 'takeaway' and as 'dining in'.

On the morning of the library's re-opening, I witnessed scores of people who had queued up to be the first to step in. The moment the doors opened, all of them rushed directly to the basement lending library.

I could not figure out why they were so keen to rush downstairs to borrow. For me, the greater thrill was not to take anything away, but to take time, to browse at leisure in the floors above.

This library will be more about setting aside time to appreciate and digest knowledge on location, rather than to grab and run and hoard. To promote this, coping with the sofa-to-citizen ratio is one thing. But for me, the real question is: Could the environment be more conducive to discussion, so that learning can be further enhanced by sharing and brainstorming?

Another question: In a place that celebrates food for thought, why so little food for today's cafe culture? With only one restaurant and such limited seating, there isn't enough 'material sustenance' for those who visit for many hours of education and enrichment.

I have saved the best point for last: Because most books here cannot be taken out, one is assured that copies will always be there, short of acts of ingenious theft.

For a writer, this is truly precious. In a country in which even the dead can seldom rest in peace - just ask the many people who have had to move the graves of their departed loved ones, even from 'high-rise' columbaria - having a book in a reference library is more enduring than any graveyard headstone or niche.

For these reasons, this gem of a place is to be treasured and cherished, thanks to the $60 million gift from philanthropist Lee Kong Chian. Thank you very much, Dr Lee.

Bras Basah Complex (aka Book City) is that old meh? :?

uh yes? dont you think it looks extremely out of place?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/shao_ye/nlbforssc1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/shao_ye/nlbforssc2.jpg

The 2nd pic is beautiful! :)

yah the old Bras Basah Complex looks seriously dated next to its new neighbour.

thanks! but seriously thats the best 'arial view' i can get... unless its done in a pano(which i've no idea how) or taken at a higher floor, then its possible to 'see' the whole building...

A good view would be from the Shaw Towers carpark.

Shaw's a very good vantage point... :cool: :yes:

13 August 2005

National Library hosts exhibition on Admiral Zheng He's maiden voyage
By Hasnita A Majid, Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE : An exhibition is now on at the National Library detailing the maiden voyage of Chinese Admiral Zheng He and his adventures in the South Seas.

The "Zheng He & Maritime Asia Exhibition" aims to create an awareness of the travels of the legendary Chinese explorer, and his influence on the maritime history of Southeast Asia.

It will showcase his various ports of call and highlight the cultural, social and political influences, which have to some extent contributed to Singapore's multi-cultural identity and entrepot status.

The exhibition will run for six months till 10 February next year. - CNA /ct

Copyright © 2005 MCN International Pte Ltd

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/shao_ye/Image3.jpg

Bugis Junction? :eek:

no, the inter-con part of bugis junction faces the ugly industrial side of the national library

Where's that... pardon my ignorance...

oh no no i was saying thats not bugis junction because the intercontinental part of bugis junction faces the ulgy industrial side of the library. and i can see from the pic that its not part of bugis. maybe nafa?

hmm...

But that's Bugis Junction! the front of the library faces bugis junction... may be need to explore the shopping mall more often? that exit where this shot was taken is quite 'deserted'...

oh :p looked wrongly then :)

can't go more often to bugis junction unless i stay there :p i'm at muji wehnever i can be

yesterday night 8pm

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/7307/dsc020744fv.jpg

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/9964/dsc020750vh.jpg

Heard from the news that there is suppose to be a wall made using bricks from the old national library. But I went from the 1st floor to the 13th floor and couldn't find it. Where is it hidden?

Heard from the news that there is suppose to be a wall made using bricks from the old national library. But I went from the 1st floor to the 13th floor and couldn't find it. Where is it hidden?

Maybe its in the basement...think I read that somewhere.

if not wrong they used 55 old brocks from old NLB

I still wonder why the heck is the lending section in basement!!!!

So small, not much difference from neighbourhood libraries!

This story was printed from TODAYonline

Singapore's hi-tech library out to woo electronic generation

Wednesday • September 21, 2005

It's Siti Noorashikin's first visit to Singapore's towering new National Library and the 20-year-old polytechnic student likes it so much she has decided to make it a new hangout.

"It's comfortable to read here," she purrs while curled up in a black synthetic leather sofa, clutching a novel by her favorite author, British crime writer Agatha Christie.

"It's not so cold like other libraries," Siti, comfortably dressed in jeans, a green t-shirt and a gray Muslim headscarf, tells AFP on the ground floor of the 16-storey building overlooking Singapore's arts and banking districts.

The high-tech library with an avant-garde design in the nostalgic Bugis district cost 120 million US dollars to build, an investment aimed at promoting love of reading among the members of the pop culture and videogame generation.

Five times larger than the old red brick-walled National Library dating back to the British colonial era, it boasts a collection of more than 634,000 items, including seven levels of reference materials with a strong Southeast Asian component stored in printed and digital formats.

Aside from offering wireless Internet access for laptop owners, the library has computer kiosks strategically located throughout the building for visitors to conduct book searches and other enquiries.

To provide a cozy feel, sofas are lined along glass walls with views of outdoor gardens, with a generous amount of natural light illuminating the reading areas.

The upper levels offer a stunning panorama of one of Asia's most modern cities, balanced by clusters of greenery at the street level.

Locals borrowing books for the first time just need to produce their pink identity cards which have a barcode to activate a library membership account.

Membership is free for Singaporeans but foreigners working here have to pay an annual fee of 6.25 US dollars, and the same amount for one-off registration.

"The new National Library is a library designed to drive Singaporeans forward in a knowledge-based world. It is a library for today's generation of users," Lim Soo Hoon, chairman of the National Library Board, said at the building's opening in July.

Apart from the serious academic stuff, the library stocks Harry Potter books for kids and music DVDs for all tastes.

Teenagers and young adults can enjoy a wealth of material on pop culture figures like US diva Madonna and Hong Kong's action flick superstar Jackie Chan, who last week gave a talk at the premises about the Asian film industry.

There is underground parking and a cafe, and just across the street is the Parco Bugis Junction shopping mall, a popular teen destination.

Even the legendary maritime voyager Admiral Zheng He from the Ming dynasty has been enlisted by library authorities to reach out to the masses in the largely ethnic Chinese society.

History buffs keen to trace Zheng's voyages to Southeast Asia can view an exhibition to commemorate the 600th anniversary of his adventures, including a replica of his "treasure ship" as well as ancient publications, maps, photographs and rare artefacts from his voyages.

"Libraries in Singapore do not just provide books ... many have cafes, programmes such as talks and exhibitions as well as multimedia resources to complete the library-going experience," N. Varaprasad, chief executive of the National Library Board, told AFP.

Before the opening of the library's new home, the NLB worked aggressively to woo the younger generation by opening lifestyle-oriented branches in the heart of the main shopping area Orchard Road and the Esplanade arts centre.

Statistics suggest Singapore is succeeding in its efforts to make libraries compete with shopping malls for the youth's attention.

According to the NLB, users between seven and 19 years of age accounted for more than 46 percent of new library registrations in 2003 and 2004.

Like many other government programs, including cultural activities, this strategy to promote reading is part of Singapore's efforts to enhance its economic competitiveness in the long term.

With virtually no natural resources except for its people, the rich city-state has poured billions of dollars into education. Its students consistently rank among the world's best in science and mathematics.

"Singapore's need to become more knowledge-based has accelerated over the past five years," the NLB said in five-year plan to 2010.

"We cannot compete on price with the lower-cost growing economies in Asia. We must compete on talent and knowledge and deliver higher value added activites," it said.

But for users like Siti, the sheer joy of reading Agatha Christie in a comfortable environment is sufficient incentive to keep returning to the new National Library of Singapore. — AFP

Copyright MediaCorp Press Ltd. All rights reserved.

I still wonder why the heck is the lending section in basement!!!!

So small, not much difference from neighbourhood libraries!

The new NLB is actually called the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library. It is primarily meant to be a Reference Library, not a Lending Library. This means that the collection inside is of reference quality, and should not be lent out in the first place.

In a way this library caters to the more "serious" crowd, people who genuinely need information. Thats why the Lending Section is in the Basement. This seperates the more casual and "loud" crowd from thronging the Reference Section.

The reason why NLB went with such a library is because the old Stamford Road Library is simply not big enough to cater to all the books that NLB wishes to put up for reference. At that time, they had a lot of good books and no place to shelve them, in the end most were placed at the closed stacks at Changi. This is not a recent development, the physical shortcomings of the old Stamford building surfaced many years ago.

Actually there are many interesting characteristics of the building that I am able to share with everyone, if there is any interest? :)

I am interested to view a panorama from the observatory Pod. Is that possible? ermm... if you aren't sure how to make one, just take overlapping pics on the same horizon and send to me at hya.sky@gmail.com so that I can stitch it up.

Thanks Cheekeen. We hope to see you often here. :)

The pod sadly is only open during special functions, and of course, by invitation. I had the chance to go up during one of the pre-opening tours, but I didn't bring a camera along, all I have got is one photo from my handphone...

http://img394.imageshack.us/img394/4476/picture296gq.jpg

Pardon the quality and framing, we weren't sure if photography was allowed (although come to think of it, it was allowed), so many cameraphones were out of the bag and as discreet as possible.

Its beautiful overlooking the entire city area from up there, and during that time was the NDP season, it must be wonderful to look at the fireworks from there.

*melted* OMG! :eek:

It's beautiful! Thanks! :)

haha cheekeen u sure sound like a NLB staff!

Hahaha no la... I'm studying Information Management, and majoring in Library work, so got a bit more exposure to these stuff... Haha.

Wah so lucky,......:eek:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/shao_ye/nl.jpg

heehee... something really crappy if you try stitching it...

is that stitched? though warped... looks interesting :)

I just went there yesterday and borrowed a book. Haha. Love it. Speaking of books, architecture fanatics would do well to read Ayn Rand's The Fountainhead. Ayn Rand is quite a brilliant philosopher and this particular piece of fiction speaks of the role of architecture in society and the role played by man's ego in it's development.

I just went there yesterday and borrowed a book. Haha. Love it. Speaking of books, architecture fanatics would do well to read Ayn Rand's The Fountainhead. Ayn Rand is quite a brilliant philosopher and this particular piece of fiction speaks of the role of architecture in society and the role played by man's ego in it's development.

one of my favorite philosopher,E2e:)

shao_ye> cool picture:yes:

I love the place!!:D
It will be my new hangout too! I can find almost every Architecture book that I want to find, even that very rare Kenzo Tange book.:)

8th floor.;)

Yup, Chatelain and I like it a lot too ;-)

harlow mr bean's teddy bear..

very well taken and very soon, we have a chance to work there hee :)
:runaway:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/shao_ye/nl.jpg

heehee... something really crappy if you try stitching it...

harlow mr bean's teddy bear..

very well taken and very soon, we have a chance to work there hee :)
:runaway:

work there?!?!? what do i do and most importantly, do i get paid? heehee...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v730/jonathantay/Picture022.jpg
I took this quite some time ago....

http://img469.imageshack.us/img469/3985/dsc03096s1wa.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Nov 13, 2005
National Library 'the latest hip joint'

THE new National Library at Bras Basah Road is a big hit with Singaporeans - it has chalked up over one million visits since it opened 3 1/2 months ago and has also loaned out half a million books.

The numbers are impressive, considering that only one floor in the 16-storey state-of-the-art building houses books that can be borrowed. The rest are taken up by the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library.

'We are heartened by how quickly Singaporeans of all ages and walks of life have accepted the National Library as part of their lives,' said Dr N. Varaprasad, the National Library Board's (NLB) chief executive, yesterday.

The library and the Drama Centre which it houses were officially opened yesterday at a glitzy event attended by about 300 guests, including ambassadors, high commissioners and members of the international media. President S R Nathan was the guest of honour.

Also present was Senior Minister of State for Information, Communications and the Arts Balaji Sadasivan. In his opening address, Dr Balaji called the library the 'latest hip joint in town' and said the opening marked a 'significant milestone in the effort to make Singapore the arts, cultural and learning capital of the region'.

He also announced a new scholarship - called the Lee Kong Chian Research Fellowship - that the library hopes will attract academics from around the world.

'Through this fellowship, distinguished scholars, practitioners and librarians will be invited to undertake research using the collections and services and in turn, create new information and knowledge for all,' he said.

Each fellowship will last six months and the library intends to issue its first one by mid-2006.

Jeremy Au Yong

Copyright © 2005 Singapore Press Holdings. All rights reserved.

http://img469.imageshack.us/img469/3985/dsc03096s1wa.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

The Pod looks huge from this angle...

Looks like a render.. :eek::cool:

The view from the pod on the 16th floor.

SCROLL --->

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v133/RafflesCity/podpano.jpg

another one

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v427/rotpics03/podpano2.jpg

raffie^^thats a nice place to hold chitchat-events,debates:yes:

looks spacey:)

indeed! it feels bright and spacey there

here's a shot of the toilet

http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/1400/nltoilet2es.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

^^shiok!!! thats the best WC-view i have ever seen:eek:

^ i think he went for the free tour of The Pod conducted only during the mornings... nice nice pics! and The Pod really seems big and spacious... but who really dare to pee there... what if suddenly someone maintaining the roof area walked passed? but can see skyline while peeing... haha....

^^ too paranoid :D

Nice views. Thanks for sharing. :)

:lol: :D

http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/5096/sundae070ska1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

The view from pod looks captivating.

I believe no one had posted these.... :)


http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b283/szehoong/CITIES%20and%20TOWNS/Singapore/National%20Library/National%20library%20interior%20Feb%202006/DSC01266sm.jpg




http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b283/szehoong/CITIES%20and%20TOWNS/Singapore/National%20Library/National%20library%20interior%20Feb%202006/DSC01265sm.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b283/szehoong/CITIES%20and%20TOWNS/Singapore/National%20Library/National%20library%20interior%20Feb%202006/DSC01264sm.jpg



http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b283/szehoong/CITIES%20and%20TOWNS/Singapore/National%20Library/National%20library%20interior%20Feb%202006/DSC01263sm.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b283/szehoong/CITIES%20and%20TOWNS/Singapore/National%20Library/National%20library%20interior%20Feb%202006/DSC01262sm.jpg

I was on my way to NTUC Income HQ yesterday evening and NLB really caught my eyes. :)

Aug 22, 2006 Evening

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b295/BODYholic/Skyscraper-Singapore/nlb01_22aug06.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b295/BODYholic/Skyscraper-Singapore/nlb02_22aug06.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b295/BODYholic/Skyscraper-Singapore/nlb03_22aug06.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b295/BODYholic/Skyscraper-Singapore/nlb04_22aug06.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b295/BODYholic/Skyscraper-Singapore/nlb05_22aug06.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b295/BODYholic/Skyscraper-Singapore/nlb06_22aug06.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b295/BODYholic/Skyscraper-Singapore/nlb03_22aug06.jpg
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b295/BODYholic/Skyscraper-Singapore/nlb04_22aug06.jpg

may be i should try out these angles soon... cause i seem to like it alot... :)

I especially like the 3rd and 4th pics :yes:

Rare letters by Stamford Raffles available for public viewing

26 Apr 07

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/imagegallery/store/phpfyAsrN.jpg

Original and never before seen letters written by Sir Stamford Raffles, the man who discovered the island of Temasek which grew to become Singapore, will be available for public viewing.

The collection of over 100 documents including personal correspondence, music scores and photographs, relating to the Singapore Institution (now known as Raffles Institution) has been made available by the school under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on Thursday between the National Library Board (NLB) and Raffles Institution (RI).

The partnership will help build the Library's Singapore collection and at the same time allow the 184-year-old Raffles Institution to preserve its heritage materials through the National Library's conservation and storage facilities.

Ngian Lek Choh, Director of the National Library, said, "In collaborating with RI to preserve these rare heritage materials of significance to Singapore’s history, the National Library will provide the rare materials preservation and storage facilities and at the same time, make these materials available to the public through modern technology such as digitisation.

"With access to such rare materials, we hope that it contributes to creating a greater awareness of our nation’s shared history and heritage, and in the process, build our sense of rootedness in the modern fast-paced world we live in today."

Sharing similar sentiments was the headmaster of Raffles Institution, Koh Chin Nguang, who said, "RI is pleased to do its part in contributing to our society and hopes that other organisations and individuals with heritage materials will do the same in building up our sense of national history and pride".

The letters, which are an addition to the National Library’s existing collection of Raffles’ letters, date back as early as 1823 and include one outlining the founding of the school to John Crawfurd, the second Resident to govern Singapore and an influential figure who implemented some of the key elements of Raffles’ vision for Singapore.

According to Senior Reference Librarian Makeswary Periasamy, proper storage is important for old materials, such as letters and books, which disintegrate easily and can never be restored.

"Rare heritage materials such as these letters dating back to the 19th century are extremely delicate and vulnerable to environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity and lighting, especially so in Singapore’s tropical climate," said Makeswary.

The National Library has rare bookroom facilities to preserve archive materials and members of the public can donate their heritage items to the Library or use its facilities.

http://www.pbase.com/gomus/image/61255807/original.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v133/RafflesCity/natlib.jpg

just realised that there's a study lounge on level 5 today.

how refreshing....is it crowded?

very... food is not allowed. But, I see macdonald's. hehe...

I went to the study corner once, it was a wasted trip. Guess only early birds are allowed. Nice pics though..