Main Library of the Warsaw University of Technology

The Main Library of the Warsaw University of Technology, located in the Main Building at Plac Politechniki 1, is a key part of the University's Library and Information System, supporting the institution's teaching and research activities. Its architecture was enhanced with an extension opened in 1999, whose designers received nominations for an award in the category of public utility buildings. The total area of the library, including its branches and dormitory libraries, is 5,808 m². The history of the library dates back to 1824, when the project of the Polytechnic Institute, which formed the foundation of its operations, was initiated. After years of turmoil, including closure following the November Uprising and destruction during World War II, the library resumed its activities in 1945. The Main Library's collections include over 1,000,000 printed books and 180,000 electronic titles, thematically covering science, technology, and economics. Historical collections, including old prints, and a photography collection comprising approximately 35,000 iconographic items, are of particular value. The Warsaw University of Technology Digital Library, which gathers works of historical significance, contains over 7,200 publications, and the University's Knowledge Base archives the scientific achievements of its staff. Supporting culture, the library organizes various events, workshops, and exhibitions, with access to most of their archives available online. It also offers educational services for students and staff, such as training in scientific information and intellectual property law. The directors of the Main Library, from Donat Kotwicz to the current director Alicja Portacha, have contributed to its development and adaptation to the changing needs of the academic community. An interesting fact is that the Main Library not only holds a rich collection of scientific literature but also provides resources in digital format and unique documents related to the history of the university and Polish technology.