The Hive opens to the public

The new Library in Worscester has opened to the public, it serves both the public and the University of Worscester. This is a sustainable building, using the river water of the river severn to cool the building down. The design has provoked a mixed response from the local residents mainly due to the fact that it makes a profound mark on the cities skyline, with the bright golden rooftops. the form of the building relates back to the history of the area as the architects, FCBS, state "The gold shingled form draws inspiration from both the historic kilns of the Royal Worcester works and the undulating ridgeline of the Malvern Hills."

Here are some interesting facts and figures about the Hive

Opening July 2012

Will be the first of its kind in Europe

12 miles of archive collections

Winner of one international award for the building's design

Shortlisted for two national awards

A quarter of a million books

Anticipating over a million visitors per year

10,000m2 of public space, over five floors

800 study stations

Over 26,000 records of historic monuments and buildings

Landmark design