Keio University Library Old Building

National heavy construction. Gothic style completed in 1912 and restored after the war. The octagonal spire and stained glass are spectacular. The design draws on the flow of Chochu Nakatsuji Architect Office and Josiah Condor. A must-see building in Tokyo.

Old University Library, Keio University University library completed in April 1912 (Meiji 45). Nationally designated important cultural property. A Gothic architecture using red brick and granite, a symbol of Keio. Although it was severely damaged by the Great East Japan Earthquake (1923) and the Great Tokyo Air Raid (1945), the original architecture was preserved. Inside, there are a library, a Fukuzawa Research Center, an orbit library, and large and small conference rooms. In addition, the “School History Exhibition Room (tentative name)” will be established around summer 2020 as a place to disseminate Keio's culture and philosophy to the world. There is a stained glass in the central staircase landing that represents the spirit of Keio University's architecture. Currently, many Keio students use the Mita Media Center (new library), so there are few people who basically use it, and the atmosphere is calm. Although it is positioned as a commemorative library, there are reading seats inside, so you can also study by yourself. To enter the library, you need to leave your baggage in a locker and post your student ID card. Inside, there is a lift for small parcels called Dam Veeter. As of September 2019, a certain barrier-free approach has been taken, such as a slope installed in the passage to the toilet entrance.

One of the highest peaks of modern red brick architecture. When you stand here, you hum naturally. "Oh my Keio Keio Keio Keio."

The renovation work is almost over, and it is now possible to visit the landing floor of the first floor and the central stairs. Stained glass is wonderful.

It is sad that cedar trees are gone, but it feels like a new era has arrived. It is an important time machine that makes me feel nostalgic memories and a sense of security without much change for the last 20 years in the building.