The "University of 1999" refers to a fictional institution depicted in the anime series Serial Experiments Lain. It serves as a backdrop for exploring themes of technology, identity, and reality. The university symbolizes the intersection of the digital world and human experience, reflecting the growing influence of the internet during that era. In the series, the university is portrayed as a place where students engage with advanced technology and virtual realities. It highlights the societal changes brought about by the rise of cyberspace and the implications for personal connections and self-perception in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.