Black Diamond Library | Copenhagen

The Black Diamond Library, or Den Sorte Diamant in Danish, is an architectural marvel and a prominent cultural institution in Copenhagen. Officially part of the Royal Danish Library, it is a striking modern building located on the waterfront of the Slotsholmen district, right next to the Christiansborg Palace and the Copenhagen Harbor. The Black Diamond is known for its innovative design, its blend of old and new architecture, and its role as a hub for culture, research, and public engagement.

Overview

• Name: The Black Diamond (Den Sorte Diamant)
• Location: Slotsholmen, Copenhagen, Denmark, along the harbor.
• Part of: The Royal Danish Library, which houses Denmark's national collection of books, manuscripts, and documents.
• Opened: The modern extension was opened in 1999, although the Royal Danish Library itself dates back to the 17th century.

Architecture

• The Black Diamond is renowned for its striking and futuristic design, which contrasts beautifully with the classical architecture of the original Royal Danish Library building.
• Designed by: Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects, the building features a black granite facade that gives it its name. The design incorporates a sleek, angular structure that reflects the surrounding water and sky, with the dramatic black exterior contrasting with the historic old library.
• The library’s main entrance is marked by a large, open space that leads into the atrium, with the central staircases and glass walls providing light and a sense of openness.
• The interior combines modern features like glass, steel, and marble, while still maintaining a connection to traditional elements, such as the use of natural materials and classical proportions.
• A prominent feature of the building is the large glass facade overlooking the harbor, which gives the interior a panoramic view of the water and the city. The open, airy design aims to create an inviting, inclusive space for the public.

Functions and Collections

Cultural Center and Public Spaces:

• The Black Diamond serves as a cultural center and library. It is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a blend of academic resources and public engagement. It hosts conferences, exhibitions, lectures, and concerts, attracting a wide range of cultural and intellectual audiences.
• The library’s design encourages visitors to explore the building and its exhibitions, offering access to various facilities like reading rooms, meeting spaces, and cafes.

Library and Research Facilities:

• The Royal Danish Library (which includes the Black Diamond) is the national library of Denmark and one of the oldest libraries in the world, housing millions of books, manuscripts, and historical documents.
• The library contains rare books, historical manuscripts, and important collections, particularly related to Scandinavian culture, history, and literature. It is also known for its large collection of digital resources and research databases.
• The library’s special collections include medieval manuscripts, maps, and literary works that are of great significance to Danish culture and scholarship.

The Royal Danish Library’s Collections:

• Some notable areas of focus in the library’s collections include Danish literature, the history of printing, the history of science, and art history. The library’s vast collection attracts researchers and academics from all over the world.
• It is also home to a significant collection of Nordic studies and Danish national heritage, making it a vital resource for scholars.

Exhibitions and Events

• The Black Diamond hosts rotating exhibitions that cover a variety of subjects, from art and photography to history and literature. These exhibitions are often connected to the Royal Danish Library's collections or feature collaborative projects with artists and curators.
• The cultural program of the library is broad and includes:
  • Concerts: The library’s main atrium is sometimes used for musical performances and chamber concerts.
  • Lectures and Discussions: It frequently organizes public talks and academic seminars on a wide range of topics, from philosophy and history to contemporary issues and digital innovation.
  • Film Screenings: The library also hosts film screenings, focusing on films that align with its educational and cultural goals.

Special Features

The Reading Room:

• The reading room in the Black Diamond is a spacious, tranquil area that provides a perfect setting for study and contemplation. The room's design takes full advantage of natural light, with its floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the harbor.

The Royal Danish Library’s Digitization Project:

• The Black Diamond is also home to efforts aimed at digitizing Denmark’s cultural heritage. The Royal Danish Library’s digitization projects aim to make historical documents, rare books, and manuscripts more accessible to the global community, preserving them for future generations.

Café and Restaurant:

• The building has a popular café where visitors can enjoy coffee, snacks, and light meals while taking in the views of the harbor and the city. The café provides a relaxing space for visitors to unwind after exploring the library's exhibitions or reading rooms.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours:

• Typically Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours on certain days for special events or exhibitions.
• The library is closed on Sundays and public holidays (check the official website for exact timings).

Admission Fees:

• Admission to the library and many exhibitions is free. However, certain special exhibitions or events may require a fee.
• Admission to concerts and other performances may vary based on the event.

Facilities:

• Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building.
• Accessible facilities for those with disabilities, including elevators and accessible restrooms.

Getting There

By Public Transport:

• The library is located just a short walk from Kongens Nytorv (King’s Square), making it easily accessible by public transport.
• The Metro: The Gammel Strand station is the closest, just a few minutes' walk away.
• Buses: Several bus lines stop near Slotsholmen, and Copenhagen’s central station (Hovedbanegården) is also a short walk away.

By Foot:

• The Black Diamond is conveniently located for those staying in the city center, and walking to the library from popular attractions like Tivoli Gardens, Rosenborg Castle, or Nyhavn is a pleasant and scenic route along Copenhagen's harbor.

Nearby Attractions

1. Christiansborg Palace: A historic government building, home to the Danish Parliament, Prime Minister’s office, and the Supreme Court, located just a short walk away.
2. Nyhavn: The picturesque harbor area, famous for its colorful buildings, cafes, and boats, located a few minutes' walk from the library.
3. Amalienborg Palace: The official residence of the Danish royal family, offering a glimpse into Danish monarchy, located near Slotsholmen.
4. National Museum of Denmark: A museum showcasing Denmark’s cultural history, also located nearby in the Slotsholmen area.

Fun Fact

The Black Diamond’s dramatic design is often compared to a diamond floating above the water. Its black granite exterior has become one of Copenhagen's most iconic modern buildings, earning it a prominent place in the city’s architectural landscape.

Tips for Visitors

1. Explore the exhibitions: Take time to visit the library’s temporary exhibitions, which are often unique and educational.
2. Visit the café: Don’t miss a chance to relax in the café with a view of the harbor.
3. Take in the architecture: The Black Diamond is a work of art in itself, so make sure to appreciate its stunning design from both inside and outside.
4. Check for events: If you're in town for a lecture, concert, or performance, be sure to check the event calendar in advance.

The Black Diamond Library is an architectural gem and a must-see cultural hub in Copenhagen, blending the city's rich history with modern design and cultural offerings. Whether you're there for the exhibitions, the books, or just to admire the building, it’s a destination that reflects Copenhagen’s commitment to knowledge, culture, and innovation.