About
Brief History
Founded Date: 1972 / Service started: 1973 March / Area of Building: 2790.25 m2 / Seat Capacity: 30
History:
The IEAS Library houses books, journals, microforms and CD-ROMs, covering the areas of American and European literature, history, philosophy, education, political science, diplomaticism, public welfare policy, law, sociology , economy and other related subjects.
The classification of collection is divided into two systems. One is Dewey Decimal Classification for western language materials, another classification for oriental materials is Lai`s New Classification Scheme for Chinese Libraries.
In September 17, 2001, the library was hit by Typhoon “Nelly”. Although 6,000 plus volumes of books and journals were saved from the flooded basement, more than 33,000 volumes were permanently damaged. Fortunately, the lost volumes have been gradually repurchased and added back to its collections over the years. The IEAS Library now has more than 251,000 volumes of books, journals, microforms, CD-ROMs.
In addition to its collections, the structure of the IEAS Library has been praised as a masterpiece of modern architecture in Taiwan. The image of the library was defined by its unassuming gesture and keen sense toward nature and locality. Functional considerations have been informing the design of floor plans as well as dictating the use of its modern architectural characteristics.
For example, the mechanical room was placed in the southern size of the library to block out direct sunlight. The elevated floor was designed to prevent flooding caused by a stream nearby. North facing horizontal window band was used to maximize the utilization of daylight. Moveable vertical blinds were placed on east and west elevations to prevent solar glare. Double-layered building envelop was specified to allow natural ventilation to work against solar heat transmitting into the interior space. And the use of bricks, concrete and woods in the structure, mostly local made, was sensitive and truthful to their material properties.
Guidelines for Visiting the IEAS Library