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Opened in 2024 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Aoyama Gakuin, the Maclay Memorial Hall is a cutting-edge academic facility. This building has combined the Main Library, Information Media Center, and Academic Writing Center into one integrated space, supporting diverse learning styles and needs. Named after Robert S. Maclay, the first chancellor of Aoyama Gakuin, this facility honors the rich history of Aoyama Gakuin, while embodying its vision for future-oriented education. Its core mission is to provide every user with a “place for intellectual growth” and to adapt to the evolving landscape of learning. It is a library that develops and improves alongside its students.
The Maclay Memorial Hall serves as a world-class venue for learning, collaboration, and relaxation. Its flexible and user-friendly design fosters knowledge exploration and cultural exchange, ensuring that everyone—students, scholars, and visitors—can find their “perfect place” in the facility.
One word: Impressive. For the longer answer, I was awestruck when I first realised this was the library, given how beautiful and modern the architecture is. I find libraries in the UK quite charming, as the best ones tend to have beautiful exteriors and facades, such as the Bodleian Library in Oxford. Unfortunately, many of these ancient libraries are not quite as comfortable on the inside, just given their age. Then, unfortunately, those libraries which are nice on the inside don`t share that same characteristic on the outside! So, you`ll typically have ugly but practical libraries, or beautiful but uncomfortable ones in the UK. Those which share the two positive characteristics are few and far between. Maclay, here at Aoyama Gakuin, demonstrated that those two characteristics are not mutually exclusive. Housing a beautiful and grandiose glass exterior, reminiscent of a financial institution in London, from which you have striking views of Nihonbashi, Minato-ward, and the premises of the campus which give the impression of being your own patio, all within the comfort of a cozy interior – it`s truly an impressive piece of architecture. What else is there to say? It`s an enamouring trap from which you won`t want to escape.
So where to begin? Something spectacular for me at least about this place is that it feels like a regular English library. Now I realise most people might reserve the word “spectacular” for perhaps more grandiose events or personal accomplishments, however, looking back on my time here, it is incredible to think that I`ve not really ever had too many issues with regards to communications, or finding certain rooms or books, all of which one should come to expect when in a city on the other side of the world! This ease of use, combined with the generally friendly and accepting nature of all the staff and students here (which is a lot nicer to have than to lack), alongside its accessibility for those who may be disabled or having bouts of stress, challenges which Western nations are rightfully becoming more aware of, only speak to how brilliant the entire place is. In fact, what I also really love about this place is the ambience. The lighting is cozy in quieter areas, remaining bright enough to be able to read, whilst being a lot more luminous in social areas, and yet still different within washrooms – the fact that this is just one small example of many in how different areas have been well-thought out and planned to this degree is not something that I think about and praise actively every day, but it does help to explain why I subconsciously love studying here! The toilets and washrooms are also pristine, and cleaned regularly – which again, speaks to how the University itself also cares for this building and for its students (if the immense investment into the construction of this library didn`t already show that!).
本の虫*です(笑). *In Japanese, "本の虫" (hon no mushi) refers to a person who loves reading, spends a lot of time with books, and sometimes prioritizes books over other activities. In English, this is expressed as "bookworm." So, essentially, I use and go to the library every day. I`m telling you, it`s actually quite addicting haha! I would honestly be fine with saying that this is my hobby, just going to the library to study and read now. From 9am-9:40pm on weekdays, until 9pm on Saturdays, and from 12pm-7pm on Sundays (though of course, I do prioritise other events, such as classes, necessary shopping, going to the gym, or church – so it`s not like I`m trapped here!). I prefer to study and be alone, given my introverted nature, and so this place has thankfully been able to satisfy my selfish desire. That being said, the first to the third floors are quite social areas, and so it caters to a variety of needs, whether you want to study, meet up, work on a group project, relax, or even if you need assistance with assignments and studying – as a reference counter (a student assignment support department) is located on the second floor! On top of that, if you need to locate a book for referencing, or for your own studies, then searching is made a lot easier with computers stationed on every floor which host the Aoyama MyLibrary webpage – assisting you with a frictionless search. Given the vast collections of books here as well, accessibility has also been made easy, as moving around the huge cabinets of books can be done with the satisfying click of a button! Of course, the intention behind it is to assist those who may have mobility issues; however, it also has the added bonus of making searching for a new book to read a lot more fun!
Haha, I don`t want to say – I want to gatekeep it! But given how kind the staff have been to me, and since they`re the ones asking these questions - I`ll answer. My favourite spot in the library would have to be the silent rooms on the fifth floor. I have studied in them throughout thick and thin, in complete silence and solitude when it truly mattered: for exams, for assignments, for relaxing after a tough day. They are there for you when the hard times come crashing down and continue to be there when the calm sky roams over a new day. They`re probably the main reason why I haven`t failed my exams yet!! That being said, I do also appreciate other levels, such as the second floor – which is always open until the end, or the fifth floor with its immense and fascinating collection of international books spanning varying subjects and nations.
For the better – thanks to having such a supportive ambient environment, I can confidently say that is has helped me be more focused, more diligent, and more curious. It`s helped me through assignments on finance, to quizzes on business, to exams focused on trade and labour. To be able to study in such a modern and beautiful building surrounded by incredibly driven and considerate people is truly an immense privilege, one which I will look back on with both fond memories and eternal gratitude to the University as an international exchange student.
The library is here for you when and if you need it. Don’t hesitate to find different places that match your needs for different days. Some days you might need a quiet space to focus, and on those days, the fourth or fifth-floor silent areas are perfect. Other days, when you might want to meet up with friends or work on a group project, the more social spaces on the lower floors offer a great environment. So, take your time to explore the library, especially as it offers quite a lot of welcome surprises. And don`t worry if you ever need to ask questions, the staff here are incredibly friendly and compassionate, as well as very devoted to their work! The Memorial Hall thankfully provides a lot of flexibility for any kind of study or relaxation situation. I can honestly say that this library has become a second home for me in Japan. It’s not just the books or the resources; it’s the entire atmosphere that has supported me throughout my academic and personal growth. I encourage you to spend time in the space, take advantage of everything it offers, and allow it to be a place where you can thrive during your studies here.
Building Area: 3,682.95 m² Total Floor Area: 16,731.24 m² Storage Capacity: Approximately 1.5 million books Seating Capacity: Approximately 1,500 seats (Library Floors) PC Classrooms/IT Training Rooms: 12 rooms Number of Computers: Approximately 620 units
These floors are equipped with cutting-edge ICT (Information and Communication Technology) tools to support language learning and digital skill development. Relaxing lounges and vibrant group study areas provide versatile environments suitable for various needs.
2F–4F: Spaces like the Learning Commons encourage collaboration, idea-sharing, and even cross-cultural exchanges among students. 5F–6F: Quiet study rooms and presentation facilities create a professional atmosphere perfect for specialized research, academic discussions, and group projects.
The library incorporates the concept of an Activity-Based Library, offering zones tailored to various purposes. This flexibility allows users to select a space that fits their individual goals and preferences: Quiet Zones: Private study rooms and individual carrel desks designed for focused learning. Group Study Zones: Collaborative spaces, such as the Learning Commons and group study rooms, encourage teamwork and the exchange of ideas. Step Hall: Connecting B1 and 1F, this versatile area is perfect for casual presentations and events, with seating that doubles as benches.
Each floor of the library features Aisle Spaces, inspired by the side aisles of churches, tailored to different learning styles: Deep Aisle: A quiet space ideal for deep concentration. Active Aisle: Equipped with movable desks and whiteboards, perfect for group activities and discussions. Change Aisle: A relaxed, café-style space where food and drinks are allowed, providing an inviting atmosphere for informal discussions or unwinding.
The library enhances user comfort and productivity with thoughtful sensory features: Sound Masking Technology: Minimizes distractions from conversations by providing ambient noise. Customized Airflow: Quiet areas feature windless air conditioning, while active zones have a gentle airflow to maintain a refreshing atmosphere. Herb Gardens: Lavender, rosemary, and other fragrant plants in the terraces and courtyards create a calming, rejuvenating environment.
A special space showcasing AGU's unique and valuable Bible collection. This library features an extensive selection of Bibles from around the world, including those from the Japan Bible Society (JBS) Collection, as well as translations in various Asian languages including Arabic. Adding to its beauty, the space is adorned with enchanting stained glass, creating a sacred and serene atmosphere.
The Maclay Memorial Hall is more than just a library; it is a space where tradition meets innovation, offering a rich environment for academic growth and meaningful interactions. Whether you’re here to study, research, collaborate, or simply explore, this facility promises an enriching and memorable experience for all.
