National Library of Macau: A History of Evolution and Transformation
The National Library of Macau serves as a vital repository of knowledge and culture, though its journey to becoming a centralized institution has been marked by decades of relocation and architectural shifts. From its humble beginnings as a school resource to the ambitious plans for a modern landmark, the library's history reflects the broader development of Macau's civic infrastructure.
The Early Years and Constant Relocation
The library was first established on September 28, 1895, originally operating as part of the Liceu de Macau, which was the Lusophone (Portuguese-speaking) high school of Portuguese Macau. The facility was first housed in St. Augustine's Church, following an announcement by the Portuguese government two years prior regarding the need for a library facility in the region.
For several decades, the institution struggled with a lack of resources. According to the Cultural Affairs Bureau, the library initially existed "in name only" and was frequently moved to different locations. In 1917, it was transferred to St. Joseph's Seminary, before moving again to the Hotel Bela Vista and later to the Shelter for the Disabled at Tap Seac.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Establishing a Permanent Presence
Stability began to emerge in 1929 when the library moved into two rooms within the IACM Building, which was known at the time as the Leal Senado Building. It remained in various temporary states until 1983, when it moved to its site on Avenida do Conselheiro Ferreira de Almeida.
The institution officially received its current name in 1994. To modernize the space, the government conducted an interior renovation of the site in early 2007. However, by that same year, the Macau government recognized the need for a larger, dedicated replacement facility to meet growing demands.
Modern Architectural Ambitions and Controversies
The quest for a new central library faced several hurdles. In 2018, the government awarded a contract to MAA Marreiros Architectural Atelier Limited, led by Carlos Marreiros, to convert the old 1951 courthouse into the new library. The project had an estimated cost of 18.68 million patacas.
This phase was not without controversy; several publications accused Marreiros of copying the design of an auditorium in Leon, Spain, an accusation that Marreiros denied.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]The Shift to Tap Seac Square
By 2020, reports indicated that the plan to repurpose the old courthouse had been abandoned. The government shifted its focus to a new site: the former Hotel Estoril at Tap Seac Square. In 2021, it was announced that the renowned Dutch architecture firm Mecanoo would be responsible for designing this new central library.
Key Facts
- Founded: September 28, 1895.
- Original Affiliation: Liceu de Macau (Lusophone high school).
- Current Design Lead: Mecanoo (Dutch architecture firm).
- Planned Location: Former Hotel Estoril at Tap Seac Square.
- Historical Sites: St. Augustine's Church, St. Joseph's Seminary, Hotel Bela Vista, and the Leal Senado Building.
| Year | Event/Location |
|---|---|
| 1895 | Established at St. Augustine's Church |
| 1917 | Moved to St. Joseph's Seminary |
| 1929 | Moved to the Leal Senado Building (IACM Building) |
| 1983 | Moved to Avenida do Conselheiro Ferreira de Almeida |
| 1994 | Officially named the National Library of Macau |
| 2021 | Mecanoo announced as designers for the new Tap Seac site |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the National Library of Macau first located?
The library was first established in St. Augustine's Church as part of the Liceu de Macau.
Why did the library move so many times in its early history?
According to the Cultural Affairs Bureau, the library suffered from scant resources, meaning it often existed in name only and lacked a permanent, dedicated facility.
What happened to the plan to use the 1951 courthouse?
The plan to convert the old courthouse into a library was reported to be abandoned in 2020 following a contract award to Carlos Marreiros that was met with design plagiarism accusations.
Who is designing the new central library?
The Dutch architecture firm Mecanoo was announced in 2021 as the designer for the new facility.
Where will the new central library be built?
The new library is planned to be located at the site of the former Hotel Estoril at Tap Seac Square.