Groningen Archives Open New Study Room After Year-Long Renovations
Open from August 13th, the renovated study room offers a more accessible and flexible space for archival research, with additional improvements anticipated before the official opening in September.
After more than a year of renovations, the Groningen Archives will open its newly redesigned study room on August 13th. This space, part of the Cascade complex, has undergone significant changes to make it more open, flexible, and inviting to the public. Visitors can now walk in without needing to reserve a spot or documents in advance, marking a return to more accessible archive research.
The new study room features a variety of zones, each tailored to different research needs. The "collection zone" and the quiet room are designated areas where visitors can work with historical documents. In the collection zone, researchers can consult freely, while the quiet room offers a space for undisturbed work. The "project zone," identified by its yellow and pink chairs, provides flexible workspaces, though it is not intended for working with documents. Additionally, the facility now includes separate workspaces specifically for the volunteers of the Groninger Archieven.
As part of the renovation, reservations are no longer required to access the archives and resources at Groningen Archives. The main entrance, which was previously closed, has now been reopened, allowing visitors direct access to the archives. This change reflects Groningen Archives' commitment to enhancing public access and providing a more user-friendly experience.
Despite the reopening, it’s important to note that the renovation work is not entirely complete. Some construction activities will continue, potentially causing noise disruptions in the study room. However, the space is fully operational and ready to accommodate researchers, historians, and the general public (great news for all students).
The official opening of the new study room is planned for September 28, 2024, but in the meantime, the renovated facilities are already available for use. The study room will be open from Tuesday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, offering a welcoming environment for anyone interested in exploring Groningen’s historical archives, or working in a pleasant atmosphere.