1. What is the history behind the National Library in Singapore?
The National Library in Singapore was first established in 1823 as a small library for the House of Jackson, the British Governor General at the time. It was mainly used by European officials and military personnel in colonial Singapore.
In 1874, the library was officially opened to the public and placed under the management of Raffles Institute (now known as Raffles Institution), a leading educational institution in Singapore.
Over the years, the library underwent several changes in location and management. In 1906, it moved to Stamford Road and became known as the Raffles Library and Museum. During World War II, much of its collections were destroyed or looted by Japanese forces.
After the war, efforts were made to rebuild and expand the library’s collections. In 1960, it was renamed as the National Library of Singapore and moved to its current location on Stamford Road.
In 1995, a new building was constructed next to the existing National Library building and named after former President Yusof Ishak. The new building housed more than 3600 seats and become a popular spot for studying and research.
In recent years, with advancements in technology, the National Library has evolved into a digital library with a focus on providing online resources and services. It also houses several specialized collections such as rare books and manuscripts, Chinese calligraphy works, Southeast Asian materials, and children’s literature. Today, it continues to serve as an important resource hub for learning, research, and preservation of Singapore’s cultural heritage.
2. How long has the National Library been in its current location?
The National Library has been in its current location since December 15, 1961.
3. What are some must-see landmarks around the National Library in Singapore?
Some must-see landmarks around the National Library in Singapore are:
1. The Merlion Park – this iconic half-lion, half-fish statue is located just a short walk from the National Library and offers stunning views of the Marina Bay area.
2. Gardens by the Bay – a modern and futuristic garden featuring impressive Supertree structures, as well as an indoor waterfall and iconic conservatories.
3. Marina Bay Sands – an integrated resort featuring a hotel, casino, shopping mall, and observation deck with panoramic views of the city skyline.
4. Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay – an iconic performing arts center known for its unique architectural design resembling a durian fruit.
5. Singapore Flyer – Asia’s largest observation wheel offering 360-degree views of Singapore’s cityscape.
6. Clarke Quay – a riverside entertainment hub with bustling restaurants, bars, and lively nightlife.
7. Chinatown – an ethnic neighborhood showcasing traditional Chinese culture and cuisine through its colorful streets lined with shops, temples, and markets.
8. Little India – another ethnic enclave with bustling streets filled with spice shops, traditional Indian eateries, and vibrant Hindu temples.
9.Suntec City Mall Fountain of Wealth – listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s largest fountain, this landmark is located near Suntec City Mall and offers visitors the chance to walk through its center for good luck.
10.Singapore Botanic Gardens – a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site encompassing over 80 acres of lush greenery including a tropical rainforest and various themed gardens.
4. Is the National Library open to visitors for tours or only for research purposes?
The National Library is primarily open for research purposes, but there are some areas of the library that are open for visitors and tours. These include the reading rooms, exhibitions, and some historical areas. However, access to certain areas may be limited or require advance booking due to preservation and security reasons.
5. Can visitors access any historical artifacts or documents at the National Library?
Yes, visitors can access historical artifacts and documents through the National Library’s Special Collections division, which includes rare books, manuscripts, maps, photographs, and other unique materials related to Philippine history and culture. These items are available for research purposes but may require special permission or procedures for handling and viewing.
6. Are there any significant events that have taken place at the National Library in Singapore?
Yes, some significant events that have taken place at the National Library in Singapore include:
1. Inauguration of the National Library Building (NLB) – The NLB was officially opened on 22 November 2005 by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. The building was designed by renowned German architect Kenzo Tange and features a distinctive spiral design.
2. Launch of the National Digital Library – In 2008, the National Library launched its digital platform, making millions of books, journals, and other resources accessible online to users in Singapore and beyond.
3. Establishment of the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library – In 2013, the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library was established within the NLB to house rare and valuable reference materials, including manuscripts, maps, photographs, and other archival items.
4. International recognition – The NLB has received numerous international awards and accolades for its innovative programs and services, including being named “Library of the Year” by both Public Libraries International (2017) and British magazine The Bookseller (2018).
5. Collaboration with Google – In 2016, NLB partnered with Google to digitize its collections and make them available on Google Arts & Culture platform, expanding their reach to a global audience.
6. Launch of Singapore’s first MakerSpace at a library – In 2016, the library launched SINGAPlNk – Singapore’s first makerspace located within a public library, providing hands-on experiences with cutting-edge technology such as 3D printing and robotics.
7. Hosting of major literary events – The NLB has been a venue for various literary festivals and events such as the Asia Pacific Writers & Translators Conference in 2019 and the annual Singapore Writers Festival.
8. Adoption of new technologies – The NLB has been quick to adopt new technologies such as implementing radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags in its collection to enhance the borrowing process and self-service kiosks for patrons.
9. 50th anniversary celebrations – In 2010, the NLB celebrated its 50th anniversary with a series of events and exhibitions showcasing its history and accomplishments. It also launched a commemorative book, “Singapore Heritage: The National Library Story.”
10. Playing a role during national emergencies – During the H1N1 pandemic in 2009 and the SARS outbreak in 2003, the NLB served as an information center for citizens, providing accurate and up-to-date information on public health measures and guidelines.
7. In what year was the National Library officially established and by whom?
The National Library of the United States was officially established in 1800 by John Adams.
8. Are there any notable architectural features of the National Library building?
Yes, there are several notable architectural features of the National Library building:
1. The Circular Main Reading Room: The most distinctive feature of the National Library building is its circular main reading room, which measures 60 meters in diameter and is illuminated by a large glass ceiling. This unique design was inspired by the traditional Chinese courtyard house and symbolizes unity and continuity.
2. Glass Façade: The library’s façade is made up of over 9,000 square meters of glass panels, giving it a modern and transparent appearance.
3. Tilted Columns: One of the most striking architectural features of the National Library building is its 16 tilted columns that support the circular structure. Each column is at a different angle, creating an illusion that the building is moving.
4. Spiral Staircase: The spiral staircase leading to the upper floors is another visually stunning feature of the library. Its outer steel frame and inner concrete core represent strength and stability.
5. Red Brick Facade: The red brick exterior walls pay tribute to Singapore’s colonial heritage as many buildings in early Singapore were constructed with bricks imported from Europe.
6. Garden Courtyard: Inside the library, there is a tranquil garden courtyard surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city center.
7. Green Roof: The roof above the circular main reading room is designed as a green roof with planted grass and shrubs to reduce heat absorption and provide natural insulation for energy efficiency.
8. Kinetic Wind Sculpture: Located in front of the library entrance, there is a kinetic wind sculpture created by renowned artist George Rickey. This abstract sculpture reflects sunlight during the day and moves gracefully with changes in wind direction.
9. What is the significance of having a national library in Singapore?
Having a national library in Singapore serves several significant purposes:
1. Information and knowledge resource: The national library houses a vast collection of books, journals, newspapers, and other materials that serve as important sources of information and knowledge for individuals and organizations in Singapore. It provides a centralized location for accessing these resources, making it easier for people to find the information they need.
2. Preserving Singapore’s heritage: The national library plays a crucial role in preserving Singapore’s literary and cultural heritage by collecting and archiving materials related to the country’s history, arts, culture, and literature. This ensures that future generations will have access to these important pieces of Singapore’s identity.
3. Promoting literacy and education: The national library offers educational programs, workshops, and events to promote literacy among children and adults alike. It also provides resources such as e-books and online databases, making learning more accessible to everyone.
4. Community hub: The national library serves as a community hub where people can come together to learn, socialize, and engage in various activities such as book clubs, workshops, talks, exhibitions, and more. This helps foster a sense of community among Singaporeans.
5. Supporting lifelong learning: With its wide range of resources and services, the national library encourages lifelong learning among people of all ages. It provides opportunities for individuals to continuously expand their knowledge and skills through self-directed learning.
6. Bridge between past and present: Through its extensive collection of historical materials dating back to pre-independence era until the present day, the national library serves as a bridge connecting Singapore’s past with its present. This helps people understand how Singapore has evolved over time.
7. Digitalization of resources: As technology advances rapidly, having a national library with digitalized resources allows easy access to information from anywhere at any time. This supports research activities or study needs from academic development till professional researches.
Overall, having a national library in Singapore plays a critical role in promoting education, preserving heritage, and fostering community engagement. It serves as a symbol of Singapore’s commitment to knowledge and lifelong learning, making it a valuable asset for the country’s social and intellectual development.
10. Can you recommend any nearby sightseeing spots within walking distance from the National Library?
– Yes, a few nearby sightseeing spots within walking distance from the National Library include:1. Singapore Botanic Gardens: This UNESCO World Heritage site is located just a short walk away from the National Library and is perfect for a peaceful stroll or picnic amidst lush greenery.
2. Fort Canning Park: This historic park is also within walking distance and offers beautiful views of the city skyline as well as various historical sites and monuments.
3. Bugis Street Market: A popular shopping destination with a vibrant atmosphere, this bustling street market is just a 15-minute walk from the National Library.
4. Kampong Glam: This colorful neighborhood is home to many traditional Malay shops, restaurants, and mosques, and can be reached within a 20-minute walk from the library.
5. Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay: Located along Marina Bay, this iconic performing arts center offers free tours and allows visitors to explore its architectural wonders up close.
6. Merlion Park: Visit Singapore’s famous Merlion statue and enjoy stunning views of Marina Bay while taking a leisurely stroll around the park.
7. Suntec City Mall: One of Singapore’s largest malls, Suntec City is just a short walk away and offers countless shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
8. Marina Bay Sands: You can also take a leisurely 30-minute walk to reach this iconic hotel-casino complex known for its SkyPark Observation Deck offering panoramic views of the city.
9. Chinatown: Walk down to Singapore’s vibrant ethnic enclave which houses traditional shophouses, temples, lively markets, and delicious food stalls serving up authentic Chinese cuisine.
10. Raffles Hotel: This beautiful colonial-style hotel is a 25-minute walk from the National Library and offers guided heritage tours that provide insight into its history and architecture.
11. Has there been any major renovations or changes made to the National Library over the years?
Yes, there have been several major renovations and changes made to the National Library over the years. These include:
– In 1865, a new wing was added to the library building to accommodate the growing collection.
– In the early 20th century, a large extension was built to house the rapidly expanding collections and services.
– In the 1950s, a modernization program was undertaken which included adding air conditioning, new lighting systems, and improved facilities for readers.
– In the late 1970s and early 1980s, an extensive renovation project was carried out, which included adding more stacks space, a new reading room, and upgrading facilities for staff.
– In 2003, a new wing was opened to provide state-of-the-art storage facilities for rare books and manuscripts.
– In recent years, there have been ongoing efforts to upgrade technology and digital capabilities while also preserving historic elements of the building.
Overall, these renovations have allowed the National Library to keep up with modern advancements while maintaining its role as a repository of national heritage.
12. Is photography allowed inside and around the National Library premises?
Some libraries may allow photography with permission, while others may prohibit it. It is best to check with the specific library or ask a staff member before taking any photographs inside or around the National Library premises.
13. Are there any special exhibitions or displays currently being showcased at the National Library?
As a digital library, the National Library does not have physical exhibitions or displays. However, there are currently several online exhibits and featured collections available for browsing on their website. These include:
1. “Living Rooms: Celebrating 200 Years of Greek History and Culture”: This exhibit showcases rare books from the National Library’s collections that highlight moments in Greek history.
2. “350 Years of Chemistry”: This collection features significant historical documents and images related to chemical discoveries and advancements over a span of 350 years.
3. “World War I: Europeana 1914-1918”: In collaboration with Europeana, the National Library presents a collection of documents, letters, photographs, posters and other items related to World War I.
4. “Irish Life and Lore Oral History Collection”: This collection contains over 4,000 oral recordings of people sharing their personal experiences of life in Ireland.
5. “Memory Project 1756-1922”: A collaborative project between the National Library and Trinity College Dublin, this exhibition presents digitized materials from several Irish archives relating to political events in Ireland from 1756-1922.
These are just a few examples; there are many more exhibitions and collections available for viewing on the National Library’s website.
14. Can visitors access a tour guide or map of historical landmarks near the National Library?
Yes, visitors can access a tour guide or map of historical landmarks near the National Library. There may be pamphlets or brochures available at the library’s information desk, or visitors can request one from the staff. Additionally, there are several online resources and apps that provide self-guided tours of historical landmarks located near the National Library.
15. Have any famous writers, researchers, or personalities visited or utilized resources at the National Library?
Yes, there have been many famous writers, researchers, and personalities who have visited or utilized resources at the National Library.
Some examples include:
1. J.K. Rowling – The author of the Harry Potter series visited the National Library in 2015 to launch her children’s charity “Lumos.”
2. Stephen Hawking – The renowned scientist used the library’s resources for research on his book “A Brief History of Time.”
3. Salman Rushdie – The Booker Prize-winning author frequently visited the National Library while writing his novel “Midnight’s Children,” which is set in India.
4. Malala Yousafzai – The Nobel Peace Prize winner has spoken at events hosted by the National Library and has also used its resources for her research work.
5. Neil Gaiman – The acclaimed fantasy writer visited the National Library in 2009 for a reading and book signing event.
6. Michelle Obama – The former First Lady of the United States visited the National Library with her daughters in 2010 during a trip to India.
7. Arundhati Roy – The Indian novelist and activist used the library’s collections extensively while researching for her book “The God of Small Things.”
8. Amitav Ghosh – The award-winning author has given talks and lectures at the National Library and has also consulted its archives for his books “The Glass Palace” and “In an Antique Land.”
9. Vikram Seth – The renowned poet, novelist, and travel writer has often utilized the library’s resources for his various works.
10. Amartya Sen – The Nobel laureate economist has spoken at seminars organized by the library, as well as consulted its materials for his research.
16.Is it possible to take public transportation to reach other historical sites from the library?
Yes, it is possible to take public transportation to reach other historical sites from the library. You can use apps or websites like Google Maps or Rome2rio to plan your route and find out which buses, trains, or subways you can take to reach your desired destination. You may also visit the official website of the public transportation provider in the area for more information on schedules and fares.
17.Can you share some interesting trivia about famous books or documents housed at the National Library?
1. The oldest item in the National Library’s collection is a Chinese book called the “Diamond Sutra,” which dates back to 868 CE.
2. The National Library houses one of the world’s four surviving copies of the Magna Carta, a medieval document that laid the foundation for many modern democratic principles.
3. Another famous document housed at the National Library is Leonardo da Vinci’s “Codex Leicester,” a scientific notebook containing sketches and notes on various topics such as astronomy, water flow dynamics, and fossils.
4. The library also holds the original manuscript of James Joyce’s “Ulysses,” complete with handwritten corrections by the author himself.
5. Among its collection of rare books is a first edition copy of William Shakespeare’s First Folio, published in 1623.
6. The National Library also has a collection of over 80,000 Japanese illustrated woodblock prints from the Edo period (1603-1867).
7. In addition to traditional books and documents, the library also contains items such as vinyl records, video games, and digital media in its collection.
8. The Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript dating back to around 800 AD and considered one of Ireland’s greatest treasures, is displayed at the National Library on rotation with other significant manuscripts from their collection.
9. The library houses several rare maps, including one depicting North America by Martin Waldseemuller from 1507 – the first map to use the name “America.”
10. One particularly unusual item in their collection is an ancient clay tablet engraved with cuneiform writing, dating back to around 2000 BCE and believed to be one of the earliest examples of writing in human history.
18.Are there any guided walks or tours available around historical landmarks near the library?
Yes, most libraries offer guided walks or tours of historical landmarks near the library. You can inquire at the library for more information on available tours and schedules. Some libraries also have guided walks or tours specifically focused on the history of the library itself. These may include visits to special collections, archive rooms, and other interesting areas within the library building. Some libraries also collaborate with local historical societies or organizations to offer educational walks or tours that highlight significant historical landmarks in the community.
19.How does technology play a role in preserving and showcasing historical information at the library?
Technology plays a crucial role in preserving and showcasing historical information at the library in several ways:
1. Digitalization of historical documents: Technology allows libraries to digitize physical copies of historical documents, making them easily accessible and preserving them for future generations. This helps in protecting fragile or rare materials from wear and tear, as well as natural disasters.
2. Online databases: Libraries utilize technology to create and maintain online databases of historical information, such as newspapers, diaries, photographs, and other primary sources. These databases make it easier for researchers to access the information they need without having to physically visit the library.
3. Digital preservation: With technological advancements, libraries are able to store and preserve digital copies of historical materials in multiple formats to ensure their longevity. This helps in protecting them from risks such as data loss or file corruption.
4. Virtual exhibits: Virtual exhibits use technology to bring together historical artifacts, images, and text into an immersive online experience that can be accessed by anyone with internet access. This makes it possible for people from all over the world to access and learn about important historical events and figures.
5. Online archives: Many libraries have virtual archives that provide access to digital copies of historical materials. These archives are searchable, making it easier for researchers to find specific information quickly.
6. Augmented reality and virtual reality: These technologies allow libraries to create interactive experiences that bring history to life through 3D models and simulations. This provides a new way for people to engage with historical information and gain a deeper understanding of the past.
Overall, technology enables libraries to effectively preserve, organize, and share historical information with wider audiences, ensuring that these valuable resources are not lost or forgotten over time.
20.What steps does Singapore take to ensure conservation and preservation of its historical landmarks like those surrounding the national library?
To ensure conservation and preservation of historical landmarks in Singapore, the government takes the following steps:
1. Legal Protection: The National Heritage Board (NHB) has been established to oversee the conservation and protection of Singapore’s cultural heritage. It is empowered by the Preservation of Monuments Act and the Planning Act to identify, document, and preserve historical landmarks.
2. Classification: Historical landmarks are classified into different tiers based on their significance and level of protection required. These categories include National Monuments, Conserved Buildings, Heritage Buildings, and Protected Structures.
3. Conservation Guidelines: The NHB has developed conservation guidelines that outline the principles and methods for preserving historical landmarks in Singapore. These guidelines help developers, architects, and conservation specialists to ensure that any changes made to these buildings are done in a sensitive and appropriate manner.
4. Incentives: To encourage private property owners to conserve their historic buildings, incentives such as tax breaks, grants, and loans are provided by the government. This helps to offset some of the costs involved in restoration works.
5. Grants and Funding: The NHB also offers grants for research on historical buildings or projects that promote their understanding or awareness. The government also provides funding for restoration projects through various schemes such as Conservation Grant Scheme and the Special Built Heritage Fund.
6. Collaboration with Stakeholders: The NHB works closely with various stakeholders such as building owners, community groups, architects, engineers, etc., to develop a shared understanding of the importance of historical landmarks and how they can be preserved effectively.
7. Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for ensuring the long-term preservation of any structure. The NHB conducts regular maintenance checks on national monuments to identify any potential issues early on.
8. Education and Outreach: The NHB carries out educational programs in schools and communities to raise awareness about Singapore’s heritage buildings’ importance and how people can get involved in their preservation.
9.Ongoing Research: Ongoing research is conducted to ensure that the conservation guidelines and methods used are up-to-date with the latest technologies. This helps to improve the effectiveness of preservation efforts.
10. Public Engagement: The NHB also conducts public engagement activities such as tours, exhibitions, and talks to engage the public in the conversation about Singapore’s heritage and its preservation.
Overall, a multi-pronged approach is taken by the government of Singapore to ensure the conservation and preservation of historical landmarks. These efforts have been successful in protecting and maintaining these important parts of Singapore’s cultural landscape for future generations.