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Utrecht University is a public research university. Established on 26 March 1636, it is one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands. The university's motto is "Sol Iustitiae Illustra Nos", which means May the Sun of Righteousness Enlighten Us. This motto was gleaned from a literal Latin Bible translation of Malachi 4:2. 

Utrecht University flourished in the seventeenth century, and contributed significantly to the Dutch Golden Age, despite competition with the older universities, such as Leiden (1575) and Groningen (1614). As the university grew, the academic buildings in the historic city centre were unable to meet the university's increasing need for space. Therefore, starting from the 1960s, a significant part of the university moved to the De Uithof campus, which occupies the easternmost part of the city and is located south of De Bilt. However, the university continued to retain its academic buildings and presence in the historic city centre.

The university consists of seven faculties: 

• Geosciences

• Humanities

• Law, Economics and Organisation

• Medicine

• Science

• Veterinary Medicine

• Social and Behavioral Sciences

The two large faculties of Humanities and Law & Governance are situated in the inner city of Utrecht. The other five faculties and most of the administrative services are located in Utrecht Science Park De Uithof, a campus area on the outskirts of the city. 

In 1584, the library was founded in the choir of St. John's Church, building on the holdings of the libraries in the monasteries.  The library was little used in the first centuries: it had very limited opening hours and it was cold. 

When Utrecht University was founded, in 1636, this city library was incorporated into the university.  At some point,  the library became too small, and in 1820 the former Palace of Louis Napoleon, built on the Drift, became the new central library.

In 2004, the University combined all faculty library collections in two locations: on the Drift (City Centre) and in the Utrecht Science Park (newly built). The library's total collection includes nearly 3 million documents.    

Both libraries are open 7 days a week during the academic year, even until 1 a.m. during exam time. At both locations,  one can study and collaborate (1500 study places in total).  

The University Library is more than a building with study places and books: we are an important center for researchers, teachers, and students in the field of scientific information.

The Utrecht Public Library (Bibliotheek Neude) is a stunning library located in the heart of Utrecht. It is situated in a historic building that was originally constructed in 1911 as the main post office of Utrecht. After a major renovation and restoration project, the building was repurposed as a modern public library and opened its doors to the public in March 2020.

The library is a true architectural masterpiece, featuring a grand entrance hall, a large atrium with a glass roof, and an impressive central staircase that leads to the upper floors. The library is also home to a vast collection of books, journals, and other media, including a special collection of rare and valuable books.

Bibliotheek Neude is not just a place for reading and studying, but also a cultural hub that hosts a wide range of events and activities, such as book presentations, author talks, and exhibitions. It is a place where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together to learn, explore, and connect with each other.

Whether you're a student looking for a quiet place to study, a book lover seeking new literary adventures, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful architecture and cultural experiences, Bibliotheek Neude is definitely worth a visit.