The decision to build a new University Library was submitted to the academic community through an online consultation. A definitive decision has been made to locate the new University Library in the Second Surgical Clinic and the former convent on the Binnengasthuis premises.
The decision, made in the middle of 2017, was preceded by extensive consultations. Initially, several scenarios had been developed for the library's construction. In March 2017, the UvA started consulting its academic community, as well as the local community.
An exhibition about the new library featuring maps, artist impressions, videos and design prospectuses was organised to provide information. Furthermore, an online platform was set up to share opinions and ask questions. All students and staff were invited by email to join this platform. Their input was processed by a research agency.
Key themes from the online platform were elaborated in focus groups. The research agency visited all of the UvA's campuses and actively approached students as well as staff to participate in the consultation process. The local community was also given the opportunity to gather information about the plans and ask questions.
The Executive Board's decision was based on the outcomes of the online consultation, an analysis by an external urban planning expert, advice from an external assessment group and positive recommendations issued by the representative advisory bodies.