NTU Main Library commenced operations in the heart of campus in 1998, offering resources and support to countless readers over the past quarter century. However, due to structural limitations of the building, the library was unable to provide many innovative library services. To remedy this situation, the Operational Planning Committee was set up in 2014 to develop a space and service remodeling plan for NTU Main Library, under three guidelines: sustainable use, flexible space utilization, as well as diverse and innovative services.
In 2022, Mr. Nan-Chiang Hsieh, an alumnus of the Department of Economics, made a generous donation to support the renovation of the main hall on the ground floor. Named “Zhi-Qiang Hall” by Mr. Hsieh, the hall was inaugurated in the middle of last year. Through this name, which means “put learning into practice and stay grounded with dignity and self-reliance,” Mr. Hsieh expressed gratitude to his alma mater.
Unlike the quiet earth tones of the existing library, the newly inaugurated Zhi-Qiang Hall has a bright interior that opens up to the view of the campus and natural daylight, enhanced by white walls and light-colored wooden furniture. The key elements of the renovation design include the new main staircase, Service Counter, Digital Media Commons, Collaboration Commons, and Leisure Reading Area. We look forward to everyone coming to this new space to seek the pleasure of reading and feel inspired in their research. Welcome to the new ground floor of NTU Main Library!
The new main staircase welcomes all readers with an uplifting visual impact; the see-through structure admits sunlight from the rear windows for enhanced lighting. The exhibition area is located above the staircase and the reading area is located below.
On the left is the Collaboration Commons designed with a modular structure to allow flexible use of the space. Besides having group discussions and studying, readers can take a break in the Leisure Reading Area or browse through a special collection of graphs as well as photos of past events.
On the right sit the Service Counter and Digital Media Commons. Besides re-integrating service circulation for improved convenience, readers can enjoy a collection of audio-visual resources, such as movies and music, in the Digital Media Commons.
