The General Library stands at the center of the Hongo Campus and was completed in 1928, courtesy of a donation from John Rockefeller Jr. following the destruction of the previous one by fire in the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. At the time of its construction, the building and facilities were among the most advanced in the world. However, having fulfilled its vital role as the University’s main library for more than 80 years, the structure and the facilities it houses are beginning to display their age and storage capacity is reaching its limits.

 It is now our responsibility to ensure we preserve for future generations the invaluable heritage of this structure and the academic materials it contains and also create a new library for the 21st century: a library that opens the accumulation, creation and provision of knowledge to the world. The University of Tokyo is therefore implementing the New Library Project. This involves not only a complete renovation of the existing library building but also the construction of a New Library beneath the area in front of the current main entrance that will feature an automated storage and retrieval system and a multi-functioning space for education and research known as the “Library Plaza.” These will all contribute to the ultimate goal of a library with greatly improved and enhanced functioning.

 Realizing the New Library is going to require considerable funds and operating expenses. It is for this reason that we have established a special fund within the University of Tokyo Foundation with the aim of assisting the creation of the New Library “Academic Commons.” We hope this fund will gain contributions from individuals, groups and corporations alike. The New Library is an extremely significant undertaking that will leave a lasting legacy well into the future. I sincerely hope that you share our project’s vision and can help support the New Library.

University Librarian, The University of Tokyo Library System
Noriko Kurushima