Kaplicky's Library

Rath Wants To Build Kaplicky's Library Near Ruzyne

The Governor of Central Bohemia David Rath belonging to Social Democrats (CSSD) has an intention to construct the blob-like Kaplicky designed library near the Prague International Airport Ruzyne. These plans were voiced by CSSD chairman Jiri Paroubek during a talk show on Prima TV.

The blob-shaped National Library building was designed by famous architect Jan Kaplicky in the last years of his life. His Future Systems studio based in London won the international competition for this construction in March 2007, but didn’t manage to complete the project. The National Library should have become Jan Kaplicky’s first important project in the Czech Republic in many years. But the architect died most likely of heart attack in January this year in the age of 71.

Supporters of Kaplicky's project collected thousands of signatures in favor of building and even organized several demonstrations. But attitude towards the project is rather controversial. Thus, President Vaclav Klaus and Prague Mayor Pavel Bem oppose the project.

Initially the new National Library building was planned to be constructed on the Letna plain near the Prague’s center. Even Mr. Paroubek emphasized that it is better to locate the library in the city center where it is easily accessed by university students and the relocation into Ruzyne area is not so good idea.

Photo: Kaplicky's Library (ceskenoviny.cz)

Date: 13/04/2009