Labrouste’s Bibliothèque Nationale is comprised of both classical and modern architectural elements, because of the advanced technology of the time. Some of the classical elements that can be seen in Bibliothèque Nationale are the ionic columns with volutes on the capitals. This is very fitting for a library since ionic capitals represent wisdom and knowledge. You can also see vaulted ceilings and domes throughout the library. Some modern elements include the columns made out of cast iron and their proportions. Cast iron allowed for the columns to be slender and spindly. The domes are also made out of iron-mesh reinforcement, which is modern.