YSMU’s New Library Renovation Project Presented

On June 13, Yerevan State Medical University named after Mkhitar Heratsi hosted the public presentation of its library transformation project, initiated by the Keron Development Foundation. The event featured welcome remarks from Yerevan Mayor Tigran Avinyan, Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports Zhanna Andreasyan, and Minister of Health Anahit Avanesyan. Among the distinguished guests were also Her Excellency Nilakshi Saha Sinha, Ambassador of India to Armenia, and representatives from various state institutions. 

The library’s current 600-square-meter space will be expanded into a fully renovated, modern, and inspiring 3,000-square-meter learning and research environment. The new library will include open and closed halls, individual and group study rooms, advanced technologies, and comfortable lounge areas — all designed to enhance the educational experience.  In his remarks, YSMU Rector Armen Muradyan thanked the Keron Development Foundation and noted:
“We believe a library should be more than just a repository of books. It should be a space for sharing knowledge, cultivating innovative ideas, and inspiring students. This project is an investment not only in YSMU, but in the entire educational system.” 

Vanane Arakelyan, Executive Director of the Keron Development Foundation, added:
“It was about a year ago that we began discussing this project with Mr. Muradyan. Let’s agree — creating something of real quality and lasting value takes time. We’ve placed great importance on everyone’s input, which is why all architectural decisions were based on your suggestions. I want to emphasize that we approach this project with a deep sense of responsibility, because it is being created for the people who hold our collective health in their hands.” 

The renovation is being carried out in collaboration with the internationally acclaimed Dutch architectural firm Defesche van den Putte (DVDP), which has extensive experience with library projects at leading European universities. The company’s co-founder and lead architect, Peter Defesche, presented the design concept, architectural and technical solutions, new zones, and a model of the future library. Following the official presentation, a guided tour of the future library site was led by Rector Muradyan, accompanied by the mayor and ministers. 

This project aims to fundamentally redefine the role of a university library — transforming it into a modern, multifunctional space that brings together education, research, collaboration, and relaxation under one roof.