The Scientific Information Center and Academic Library (SICAL), which development is currently in progress, is going to be a so-called hybrid library. It is a marriage of tradition and modernity. The aim of the project is to develop a modern scientific facility, which will meet 21st century requirements, and will keep a spirit of a traditional library. To be precise, the SICAL will make accessible its data in printed editions as well as electronic carries and via the Internet. Additionally, the Center will also be a place of conferences, scientific and cultural events. The building and its files will offer universal access for all the local society of students, scientists and citizens.
The hybrid function will allow to chose the files carrier (books, magazines, documents, databases, electronic texts, audiovisual materials, multimedia), including needs of disabled people, plus the way of files searching – in the building or on-line outside the SICAL. The future library has another important asset. It will be self-serviced. Anyone who visits the Center will be able to find an item, chose and pick up a carrier, and borrow it by himself. If the assistance needed, a library staff will service readers.
What is very important in modern facilities, computer stations will be put at users disposal. Also, individual rooms will be created as a quiet space for work and study. Furthermore, readers will be able to use a reprography room, xerox room, audiovisual and microfilm room and room in which the library collections will be digitalized. About two million files including 400 000 printed tomes will be available in the library.
An opening of the Scientific Information Center and Academic Library is planned in 2012.
