The University Library of Leuven

Updated pocket guide with history, architecture, biographical notes and a walking tour in and around the library. The University Library at the Mgr. Ladeuzeplein in Leuven is not only a beautiful building and a modern scientific library consulted by more than 100,000 readers a year, but also an important historical monument. Its foundations are rooted in that tragic episode in the 20th century, the First World War. In the mass destruction of Leuven in 1914 the library of the University was burned and completely destroyed. Thanks to generous American donations the new library building on the Mgr. Ladeuzeplein was established in 1921. For anyone who wants to learn more about the history of this remarkable building, or who wants to walk in and around the library, this guide is an absolute must! Ook verkrijgbaar in het Nederlands (ISBN 9789058679208)

PREFACE

PART I. FROM AUGUST 1914 TO MAY 1968

The sacking of Louvain
Leuven burns
International indignation
International aid

The new University Library: A gift from the American people

The fire of May 1940

The reconstruction

The schism after 1968

PART II. THE OLD UNIVERSITY LIBRARY 1636-1914 51

PART III. Guided Tour

Style
Facade
Blijde-Inkomststraat side
Rear
Bell tower
Ground floor
Grand staircase and first floor Hall
Main Reading Room
Grand staircase and second floor Hall

CONCISE BIBLIOGRAPHY

APPENDIX: LIST OF COMMEMORATIVE PLAQUES, COMMEMORATIVE STONES AND INSCRIPTIONS ON THE WALLS AND PILASTERS OF THE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY

Format: Monograph - paperback

Size: 180 × 120 × 10 mm

132 pages

ISBN: 9789058679253

Publication: October 15, 2012

Series: Lovaniensia 32

Languages: English

Stock item number: 97350

Jan Van Impe studeerde archeologie aan de KU Leuven. Hij heeft gewerkt als archeoloog en journalist en werkt sinds 1996 voor de Universiteitsbibliotheek als informatiespecialist.