Why is Microsoft closing its physical library?

Microsoft is closing its library as part of a shift towards a modern, AI-powered learning experience and the development of its Skilling Hub.

What is Microsoft's AI-powered learning experience?

It's a new initiative to provide employees with AI-driven learning resources, replacing traditional library services and subscriptions.

Did Microsoft's books really sink a building?

There is an unproven legend among employees that the weight of the library's book collection caused a campus building to sink.

Home / Technology / Microsoft Ditches Books for AI Learning

Microsoft Ditches Books for AI Learning

15 Jan

•

Summary

Microsoft is phasing out its physical library and digital subscriptions.
This shift is part of a move towards an AI-powered learning experience.
An old legend claims Microsoft's book collection once sank a building.

Microsoft has begun a significant transition, closing its physical library and discontinuing numerous employee subscriptions to digital publications and news services. This decision aligns with the company's strategic pivot towards an "AI-powered learning experience" through its new Skilling Hub.

Subscriptions to services like Strategic News Service (SNS) and access to digital books from the Microsoft Library have been terminated as contracts are not renewed. This marks a broader shift away from traditional resources, with some publishers receiving automated cancellation notices. The company states this change is part of a modernization effort.

An old campus legend recounts how the immense weight of Microsoft's book collection allegedly caused a building to sink and structural damage. While the library space itself is being repurposed for the Skilling Hub, the exact future of the physical location remains uncertain as the company embraces its AI-focused learning future.