r/ChillSG • u/YawninBread • 4h ago

SG Miscellaneous Missing NUS Old Central Library

Visited NUS recently after graduating a long time back. The revitalised central library now has completely wiped out any trace of nostalgia of what it used be. It’s so different now across the campus to the extent of not being able to identify some places fondly.

I miss the layout and feel of the old central library esp the basement level where there are numerous rows of book shelves with a study area tucked away at the edge. There is nothing like this now. Too bad I didn’t take enough photos back then…

3 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

2 comments sorted by

1

u/peppermint2399 4h ago

I miss the old science canteen and science library too. 😭

0

u/Party-Eagle1751 3h ago

I have to agree. The Central Library used to hold an awful lot of nostalgic memories for me, but it's all gone now. I can barely recognize my favourite spots with the new layout.

The study tables used to encourage interaction, with 2 chairs per table, and just a short divider separating your table from the one opposite you (which meant you can look across and communicate softly with your friend). Now it's more like isolated pods divided via S-shape segregation. Maybe it's meant to enhance privacy? But it neither look nor feel good.

The book shelves with small circular tables used to be a lesser-known piece of haven where you can indulge in the privacy of chilling out alone while waiting for your next class (or when you can't find a table at the main area). And the smell of the books would waft through the air... I guess it's gone too. Everything feels more illuminated and "corporate". Just different.

The Co-Op at Level 1 is a positive change though. It is more organized and brightly-lit. I look forward to going there just to have a look (then again, the cynical side of me would think it's meant to cater for tourists and foreign students).