Bookshelves at the Rosebud Sivullinen bookshop in Kaisa House, Helsinki, on 12 August 2025. The bookshop is closing its operations in Kaisaniemi because its lease with the University of Helsinki will not be renewed. The lease termination was formally issued by University of Helsinki Properties Ltd. Photo: Elsa Paakkinen / Lehtikuva
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University of Helsinki Rector Sari Lindblom has issued a public defence of the university’s property rental policies, following criticism over the removal of the Rosebud bookshop from Kaisa House.
In a blog post published on the university’s website, Lindblom attributed the decision to financial pressure caused by a significant drop in state funding over the past decade. She wrote that the university’s basic public funding had decreased by over 18 percent between 2013 and 2023.
The Kaisa House, which houses the university’s main library, had previously included a Rosebud bookshop outlet. In the summer, the university’s property management company terminated Rosebud’s lease. The vacated space will be rented to Rusta, a Swedish discount retailer.
The decision prompted backlash from students, staff and alumni. Critics argued that the commercial shift undermines the university’s cultural mission. Many also questioned the transparency and priorities behind the move.
The university has not granted interviews on the matter despite repeated requests. Lindblom’s blog post marked her first public comments on the issue.
“This is a relevant question, and university supporters have raised important issues in seeking an answer,” she wrote.
She defended the commercial strategy as necessary for the institution’s financial sustainability. Since the 2010 university reform, Finnish universities operate independently and are responsible for their own finances.
“To ensure we can continue nurturing education, the University of Helsinki must support it through other activities,” she wrote. “Business activity is one of them. Its role has grown significantly.”
She stated that the university now hosts 125 tenants and follows industry standards and legislation in its rental agreements. She did not respond directly to concerns about the replacement of Rosebud by Rusta.
“Universities face high expectations, and we are doing our best to meet them,” she said.
Lindblom acknowledged the symbolic value of the bookshop, describing it as an important venue for those interested in science and culture. She admitted the departure of Rosebud from Kaisa House is a loss for many.
“It is also regrettable for the university that talks with Rosebud did not lead to a new agreement,” she wrote.
The rector said the incident had prompted internal reflection.
“We have learned a lesson. The university must improve how it explains its business decisions both publicly and within the community,” she said.
She did not explain why more detailed justification was not provided at the time of the eviction.
Lindblom wrote that she would continue discussions with the university’s leadership and board.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
