Sainte Geneviève Library

Name: Chenfei Cao

Course:Arch 162- M 12
Sainte Geneviève Library

The Sainte Geneviève library is one of the most outstanding works of architecture of the 18th century. The building was constructed by architect Henri Labrouste between 1843 and 1850 and opened to the public in 1851 (Leanna 1).
One of the most intriguing features of the building is how the use of iron as a finishing product was incorporated on the walls of the interior of the library creating a uniquely cool and serene environment suitable for studies (Leanna 2). The columns supporting the weight of the building are also crafted from iron which divides the space for occupation into two majestic aisles giving the impression of a sophisticated interior monumental building.
The entire upper storey of the room is made for reading space with access provided by spacious stairways. The books are stored on the lower floor to enable easier access for users who only borrow the literature material for use somewhere else (Saunders 11). The operations office is located to the right of the same floor to enable easier accessibility and monitoring of proceedings by the library’s management.
However, unlike the interior which is mostly covered with a versatile expression of iron works, the building’s exterior appears plain in design to impose a sudden change in impression when one accesses the inside of the building from the outside mimicking the ancient Roman architecture which preferred keeping the exterior of buildings as simple as possible (Saunders 10). The walls of the building are punctuated with 49 tall windows that allow enough natural light into the room saving on the cost of artificial sources of lighting (Leanna 3). The ceiling is also raised high enough for proper aeration and space.
Leanna, Garfield. “This Parisian library looks like a real-life Hogwarts.” Business Insider, 2016, http://www.businessinsider.com/sainte-genevieve-library-hogwarts-2016-7?IR=T. Accessed April 22, 2018.
Saunders E. Stewart. “University of Paris Libraries: Sainte Genevieve Library.” Libraries Research Publications, 2001, http://docs.lib.purdue.edu/lib_research/24. Accessed April 22, 2018.

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