The University of Ljubljana (UL), the UL Central Technical Library (CTK) and the National and University Library (NUK) held a joint press conference, at which we signed a Letter of Intent regarding cooperation on the NUK 2 project. At the event, which took place on 3 September 2026 in the NUK meeting room, the three institutions joined forces in a joint effort to ensure that the future library will not only have the appropriate infrastructure but also high-quality services and content, tailored to the needs of its users.
The Rector of the University of Ljubljana, Prof. Dr. Gregor Majdič, Director of the National and University Library, Dr. Jana Kolar, and Acting Director of the Central Technical Library of the University of Ljubljana, Tilen Mandelj, they confirmed a shared vision that NUK 2 – the University Library of Ljubljana – should be developed as an open, connected and modern centre of knowledge, which will link the University of Ljubljana, the National Library and the Central Technical Library, and serve students, researchers, the professional community and wider society.
Slovenia urgently needs NUK 2, not only because of the shortage of library space, but also because of the genuine needs of students, researchers and other users. Jana Kolar told journalists that the first phase of construction of the NUK 2 building, which has a valid planning permission, has begun.
»This is also the right time to start discussing how we can develop the best possible content for future users of NUK 2. NUK is therefore delighted to be partnering with CTK – you may not be aware of this, but even the very first plans in the early 1990s included discussions with CTK. No agreement was reached at that time, as the obstacles to collaboration were too great. I am delighted that we have now overcome these obstacles. We have never discussed coexistence with the University of Ljubljana (UL) in the past, so I am thrilled about the good cooperation with both organisations and look forward to future collaboration,« Jana Kolar told the press.
»The University of Ljubljana has been collaborating with both libraries for a long time, and we provide everything our students need to study,« said Gregor Majdič, adding: »The idea is that we will share premises, which will mean better organisation of our library’s work in collaboration with the National and University Library (NUK) and the Central Technical Library (CTK).« At the same time, this will also streamline operations, leading to better conditions for students, he added, announcing that this would resolve the issue of study spaces.
»Today, the National and University Library, the University of Ljubljana and the Central Technical Library of the University of Ljubljana are signing a document setting out how we might coexist under one roof. Not about a merger. It is about co-existence. The model is based on partnership whilst preserving the autonomy of all three institutions,« explained Tilen Mandelj, acting director of the CTK.
NUK 2 – The University Library in Ljubljana will thus provide a new public space that will enhance opportunities for students and researchers to acquire and share knowledge, skills and experience. At the same time, it will serve as a modern centre for study, education and research; a socially inclusive space for various target user groups; and a space for creativity and innovation.
