Construction of the University of Sarajevo Library Enters Final Infrastructure Phases

(31/01/2026) - The construction of the University Library on the University of Sarajevo Campus is proceeding according to plan and is currently entering the key infrastructure and interior phases of implementation.

After the successful completion of reinforced concrete and masonry works, roofing works are in full swing, ensuring complete protection of the building, while intensive work is being carried out on mechanical installations, water supply and sewage systems, and electrical installations, laying the foundation for a modern and long-term sustainable infrastructure.

In parallel, the interior of the building is taking its final shape through a series of construction and craft works, including the installation of locksmith elements, painting and other interior interventions, which will ensure high functionality and aesthetic value to the space, in accordance with modern standards of university libraries.

Assessing the importance of this project, the Prime Minister of Sarajevo Canton Nihad Uk, during his visit to the construction site yesterday, emphasized that the construction of the University Library goes beyond a classic investment in a facility and represents a strategic investment in the future of society.

"The University Library is the foundation of a modern university and a clear message that the Sarajevo Canton places knowledge, science and young people at the center of its development policies. The library will be very modernly equipped, according to the highest world standards, with specially designed depots for the preservation of rare materials and controlled spaces for materials that require special storage conditions," said Prime Minister Uk, adding that it is particularly important that this project is being implemented after years of delays and blockades, but today with a clear vision and stable dynamics.

Prime Minister Uk was joined on the tour of the construction site by the Minister of Science, Higher Education and Youth of Sarajevo Canton, Prof. Dr. Dušanka Bošković, the Minister of Justice and Administration, Prof. Dr. Darja Softić Kadenić, and the Minister of Finance, Afan Kalamujić, who were presented with details of the project implementation by the Rector of the University of Sarajevo, Prof. Dr. Tarik Zaimović, Director of the Sarajevo Canton Construction Institute Belma Barlov, Director of the Directorate for Construction and Maintenance of the University of Sarajevo Campus Lejla Hajro, creator of the conceptual design Prof. Dr. Adnan Pašić, and representatives of the contractors.

Minister Bošković emphasized that this building will be a central place where students will be able to gather and learn, as is the practice in modern universities in Europe.

"The library is the heart of a university. Not only because of the traditional importance of the library, but also because of the many modern services that libraries and librarians provide. It is a place that we hope will be a gathering place, not only for students and academic staff of the University of Sarajevo, but also beyond," stated Minister Bošković.

The University Library will be located in the eastern part of the University of Sarajevo Campus, in the immediate vicinity of the United States Embassy, ​​and will represent the first constructed facility that clearly depicts the future appearance and concept of a modern campus. Spread over more than 7,000 square meters, the library will include modern reading rooms, multimedia rooms, digital archives, conference and research spaces, with a special focus on the application of the latest technologies and full adaptation to persons with disabilities.

Rector Zaimović emphasized that the new library will play a key role in the development of the academic community and strengthening international cooperation, and emphasized the role of the library in everyday student life and campus development.

"Our desire is for it to become a single heart where all students of the University of Sarajevo will gather in their work and daily activities. In universities in the European Union, students spend most of their time in libraries, in reading rooms. And that is why this library is in the center of the Campus and should represent the starting point for the future construction and development of the University of Sarajevo Campus," said Rector Zaimović.

The Government of the Sarajevo Canton remains committed to ensuring, in cooperation with the University of Sarajevo and international partners, the continuation of the construction of other segments of the Campus, with the aim of creating an integrated university space that will provide students and the academic community with all the necessary resources in one place.

The University of Sarajevo expresses special gratitude to the Saudi Fund for Development and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the financial support and partnership that enabled the implementation of this strategically important project for the development of the University of Sarajevo, higher education and science.