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Abstract

A new Bibliotheca Alexandrina is planned in the city of Alexandria, where the famous Alexandrian Library of antiquity was situated. The winning design for the building, by Snohetta Arkitektur Landskap of Norway, is in the form of a circle inclined towards the sea, partly submerged in the ground – the ancient Egyptian image of the sun. Unesco has launched an international appeal to meet the cost of the building, the collection and computerization of the library, and the establishment and staff of an International School of Information Studies. With annual operating costs the estimated sum totals $160million. The library will comprise seven divisions (General Services, Technical Support Services, Cultural Activities, Library, Special Collections, Technical Services, ISIS, and Conference Centre). There will be close links with the University of Alexandria, notably through the role to be played by ISIS. The new building will be opened in 1995.

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References

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The New Bibliotheca Alexandrina

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