The Norbertine Library

The Norbertine Library is home to a fully accredited Masters of Theological Studies program and the most extensive collection of theological and spiritual texts in the state of New Mexico. Located adjacent to Santa Maria de la Vid Church at the Norbertine Community Priory, the library building also includes spiritual direction rooms, a seminar room, library support spaces, a reception area  and staff offices.

The library was designed to provide an experiential journey for all visitors. Examples of the environmental-psychological nature of the space include the gradually rising and widening corridor leading to the library, a passing view of the "resting rocks with tree" sculpture in the meditative garden, and the 83 foot long by 15 foot high window wall along the south side of the main room. The overall theme was to expand the senses while creating a place of openness, freedom, and lightness. The abundant daylight entering the library reduces the need for electric lighting, and thus energy use, during the day. Materials and finishes chosen for the library match those used in the Santa Maria de la Vid Church constructed ten years earlier.

Location:  Albuquerque, NM

 see also: D/P/S Libraries