De Krook, Ghent

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Ghent, Belgium, De Krook emerges as a beacon of modernity and intellectual progress. This contemporary library and media center, which opened its doors in March 2017, represents a new era in the city's cultural and social landscape. Located at Miriam Makebaplein 1, De Krook stands on the banks of the Scheldt River, integrating seamlessly with the city's historic charm and its forward-looking aspirations.

The architecture of De Krook is a marvel in itself, designed by the renowned partnership of Coussée & Goris architects and RCR Arquitectes. The building's sleek lines and transparent façades invite the public into a space that is not just a repository of books but a hub of knowledge, technology, and innovation. Its design symbolizes the bridge between Ghent's storied past and its dynamic future, offering a meeting place for the community and visitors alike.

De Krook is more than just a traditional library. It's an epicenter for digital advancement and a laboratory for media innovation. The facility houses the city's main public library, but it also provides a platform for startups, academic researchers, and creative minds to collaborate. This synergy of ideas is supported by the presence of imec, a world-leading research and innovation center in nanoelectronics and digital technologies, and Ghent University, which contributes to the intellectual dynamism of the space.

The library's collection is vast and varied, catering to all ages and interests. With its multimedia resources, reading areas, and workspaces, De Krook is designed to foster learning, creativity, and community engagement. It also offers a packed calendar of events, workshops, and lectures, further establishing itself as a cornerstone of cultural exchange and lifelong learning.

Accessibility is a key feature of De Krook. The center is open to all, with spaces and technology designed to be inclusive for people with disabilities. It also serves as a social space where visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee, browse the internet, or engage in quiet study.

As the sun sets on Ghent, De Krook doesn't lose its luster. The building becomes a glowing fixture along the Scheldt River, its presence a testament to the city's commitment to progress and modernity. De Krook is not just a building; it's a statement of Ghent's investment in knowledge, culture, and the future.