FOR THE LOVE OF READING

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The Jacob-und-Wilhelm-Grimm-Zentrum is the new central library of Humboldt University, located on famous old boulevard Unter den Linden, near Museum Island and Brandenburg Gate. It's the biggest freehand library in Germany and contains 2 million books, all of them publically accessible and not in closed depots. Berlin-based Swiss architect Max Dudler won the competition, in which 277 architects participated, with a typical 'Berlin style' rationalist building. Behind a strictly orthogonal façade, the visitor encounters the big reading hall, which refers to the terraces of the Hanging Gardens of Semiramis. The space is illuminated by natural roof light and contains green desks and lamps with stone covers for 250 people, all designed by the architect. The atmosphere of the hall breathes a similar spirit as the big library hall by Labrouste in Paris. Most of the 1250 workstations are located directly at the façade with tremendous views over the city