Byblos Library Move

The design of nowadays featured libraries is evolving and LAU’s new Byblos Library Building is no exception to this phenomenon. Construction commenced in April 2016 and has been substantially completed in June 2018. The new Library provides technology-rich, creative and inspirational spaces to meet current and future needs.

The new 6,540 m2 cutting-edge Byblos Library Building, with a landscape area of 2,614m2, will be the new focus of the LAU Byblos campus. Whereas in the past collections formed the nucleus of a library, today it is people who are at its heart. Communal spaces for social and group learning are now essential and the transformation in library building design reflects the new reality.

Byblos Library Building: Facts and Figures.

This state-of-the-art facility houses different forms of modern day advancements that have a profound effect on the functions and design of the library.

A five storey building with interior spaces that are designed to reinforce user’s fluidity and communication, through transparency and openness of the study areas, the many possibilities of chance encounters and exchanges along the open staircase, the lounge corners, as well as the visual connection to the surrounding landscape.

Physical Spaces include:

• Open space reading area accommodating 186 print periodicals
• Archive space
• Compact Shelving (Fixed and Mobile) for 180,000 information records
• Open-space study areas with inspiring furniture and integrated power outlets
• Open Space Computer tables (124 computers)
• Open space private study tables
• Group study rooms with integrated IT equipment and different occupancies
• Multi-purpose rooms with mobile furniture open to the Sunken garden
• Conference room with latest video-conferencing equipment
• Intimate lounges
• EIC room with the latest technology and IT equipment (14 computers)
• Offices with clear glass partitioning to foster communication and transparency
• Genius bar per floor that accommodates latest printers and copiers 
• Service and Circulation Desks
• Sunken garden with amazing stone-like seating and beautiful landscape

The library offers an inspiring atmosphere with a breathtaking view. The old Byblos library has been transformed into a modern facility to foster a collaborative environment.

What the team is saying:
 

“Our new Library building is the culmination of a visionary dream, and the translation of eleven years of indefatigable efforts to bring forth this icon building and set it as a new jewel on LAU’s crown. The complexity and significance of this pioneering LEED –Gold certified icon building speaks for its self. And so does the incorporation of cutting edge engineering systems, safety and sustainability technologies, as well as the finest selection of furniture and equipment. It was a unique and massive endeavor which started back in 2007, and an inspiring story of dedication. Thank you to all those who participated in realizing this distinguished architectural landmark at the forefront of the Byblos campus.”
— Georges Hamouche | AVP for Facilities Management

“Inspired by the past, we expressed the concept of connectivity and communication. Connectivity is revealed by the diffused daylight flowing seamlessly inside and by extending visual continuity inside/outside. While the interior space reinforce communication through transparency and openness, and the many possibilities of chance encounters.”
— Lead Consultant | Design Concept | Architect Anna Torriani of New York A*PT Architecture

“While it is important for libraries to stay ahead and provide users with access to the latest online resources and technologies, research shows it’s also about being able to provide a delicate balance of “blended Learning”- study that takes place in both the digital and physical space. Libraries used to be known as places of silence with pockets of group work and activity, in the 21st century University they are becoming places of learning activity with pockets of silence.”
— Lead Consultant | Design Concept | Architect Lorenzo Pagnamenta of New York A*PT Architecture

“We are proud to have contributed to the realization of the New Library and Administration Buildings at LAU Byblos Campus, which turned out to be a Landmark and earns one of highest LEED certifications in Lebanon. Our thanks to the Client with whom we have enjoyed our Collaboration.” 
— Rafik El Khoury & Partners | Local Consultant | LEED Commissioning Agent

 “The Library and Administration buildings at the Lebanese American University is one of the most prestigious Projects in Lebanon. Unique in its breathtaking modern design, the Library and Central Administration is a masterpiece built to the highest standards and energy saving features.”
— Project Management Firm | D.G.Jones & Partners (ME) Ltd.

“Outstanding experience that involved distinctive finishing achievements added to pioneering green requirements. We won the challenge and we are proud of what we delivered”
— Contractor | NATCON

“I am proud and honored to have participated, throughout all the Project’s stages, in the making of this remarkable, iconic, green and State of the Art building. I am sure that it will positively contribute to the University’s Mission and Vision.”
— Shaheen Bou Jawdeh | Executive Director for Project Management & Contract Administration

“You build an Engineering, Medical, Administration and Architectural Schools, you are nothing; you build the brilliant Library building at LAU with highest standards, you are everything. Our university would be just a group of buildings gathered around the magnificent Library Building”. 
— Toufic Smayra | Director of Capital Construction Management

“The Simplicity and Elegance of the Library Building hide the Complexity of the Design and Construction.”
— Marlene Khalife | Project Manager

“This is a unique project and iconic facility with breathtaking and relaxing atmosphere. Every space has its distinctive attribute and furniture selection. The influencing design demonstrates the powerful effect that architecture, through elements like space, light, geometry and materials, can have on the users’ mood. It will be the central hub for all… Hats off to all parties involved in this project”.
— Facilities Management | Planning & Renovations | Space Planning & Management | Design Unit

“Proud to have participated to the creation of such a green space; a high performance and environmentally friendly building which provides a safe, inclusive, healthy and pleasant cultural environment for the LAU community while saving energy, water and materials.”
— Facilities Management | Physical Plant | Design and Commissioning Unit

“This important step is a quantum leap in the right directions towards providing the LAU community with a better environment conducive to learning and teaching”.
— Cendrella Habre | University Librarian

“I feel very honored to have witnessed the marvelous evolution of the LAU Libraries and in particular, the soon to open new Byblos Library which seems to draw charm from the past only to lend, with confidence, much creativity and inspiration to the future. “Mabrouk” to Lebanon and the entire LAU community this profoundly Lebanese educational icon. It is well deserved”.
— Marie-Therese Mitri | Interim Director

“From the Amchit oldest campus in 1991, and since then in the containers, the classrooms, the attic in the science building, the continuous peers’ promises to have a new library building very soon, the dream has become true 27 years later. Unfortunately i am not there at this moment to share the whole LAU community the joy to have the longtime awaited marvelous building, but proud and honored to be part of the evolution of the project. Efforts have paid off. Congratulations to the LAU community.”
— Joseph Hage | Retiree Director

“Managing the procurement process of all trades related to this project has its challenges to meet the best selection of the requested items. Not having seen the Library building yet, it is only through LAU FM website that I came to realize the magnificence of the project in which I had the chance of being involved. This gives justice to the creativity and effort expended in the design and building of this work-of-art facility.”
— Khalil Fegahli | Procurement Office