A major new building for Aberdeen has opened its doors to the public for the first time this month (September 2011).

The new University of Aberdeen Library, by Danish architects schmidt hammer lassen, was designed to provide a 21st century learning and research environment for students, university staff, visitors and the public.

Conceived as a cube evoking the ice and light of the north, the new library is arranged over eight levels, around an asymmetrical atrium offering spectacular views over the city of Aberdeen and across the North Sea.

In addition to housing a collection of over one million books, the new library also provides an advanced learning environment by means of a series of flexible spaces offering various opportunities for individual study, group-working, seminars and meetings.

Construction by main contractor Pihl UK began in September 2009 and was completed this summer. The £57million project is the largest capital fundraising project yet undertaken by the University, receiving support from alumni and private donors around the world, from companies in many sectors of business, and from charitable trusts local and national.