Name of the Library:Public Library of Tonsberg and Notteroy
Parent Organisation:Municipalities of Tonsberg and Notteroy
Street Address: Storgt. 16, 3126 Tonsberg, Norway
Postal Address: PB 2131, 3103 Tonsberg, Norway
Telephone :+47 33354900
Web Address: http://www.tnb.no
Library Email:tbg@tnb.no
Type of Library : Central/ Main Library, Medium size town library
Population served: 63,000
Project Type: New Building
Size (square metres):5020
Date of Completion:1992
Architect:Lunde & Louseth
Description
Prize winning architecture combining glass and steel, with a stunning roof, where steel creates the symbolic picture “under the tree of knowledge”.
The library building interconnects the past and the future being situated on the site of the old St Olaf’s monastery from 1180. The ruins of the monastery are now part of the library, hosting events of literature, music and debates.
The architecture has a sustainable design – it makes a very adequate frame for also the future library. Library services change and it fits well into the 1992 building.
The Library fulfils its role as a local meeting point, connecting people, and also supports the local affiliation of the inhabitants giving direct access to the medieval history of the city centre.
Awards, case studies, further information
The Norwegian Award for Steel Constructions 1993
The European Award for Steel Constructions 1993
The Scandinavian Roof Construction Award 1993
The Houen Foundation Diploma 2000
1001 Libraries to see before you die 