What makes a good university library building? Christine Fyfe Pro-Vice-Chancellor & University Librarian

The presentation Overview of the project Why we did what we did How well has it worked? Reflections

Overview of the project £32m extension and refurbishment of the mid 1970s building to create a contemporary, welcoming, inspirational and adaptable library Doubling in size to 15,500 sq m Sensitive to the needs of a wide range of users Technology-rich combined and space for reflection and contemplation

What was it like before?

The site

Campus aerial view

The building programme Three years in total – start on site May 2005, full completion April 2008 Two years to build extension –Excavation of basement

Decant period After extension was complete, entire library was moved into it while the 1970s building was remodelled We didn’t close! Books were available throughout unless actually on a trolley

The finished library Doubling of visitor numbers Terrific feedback from students Architectural and building awards And this is what it looks like …

Why we did what we did Knowing your customers –Formal and informal surveys –Staff student committees –Presentations at all opportunities –Project team Learning from other projects Striving for clarity

What did they want? Appropriate heating and ventilation Designated noisy and quiet areas Natural light A clear, self-explanatory layout A comfortable, informal seating area A spacious feel

What did they want – paired comparisons? Open 24 hours Places to plug in your own laptop Self issue and return of books Much less important – vending, machines, shop and cafe

Postgraduates – informal survey Existing Library has an undergraduate feel – strong support for a PG area Both informal and formal areas Social aspects Plans “meticulous and brilliant” Pleased to be asked

Design principles - 1 A single seamless space Modern, light, welcoming, sophisticated ambience with a ‘sense of place’ Vistas and visual interest & intimate spaces Capable of standing the test of time; adaptable Generosity of space Logical layout and easy navigation

Design principles - 2 Design that encourages appropriate behaviours and independence Zoning – quiet/noisy; formal/informal Appropriate space for a range of activities Blending of digital and print Acoustics Technology – wifi etc

Design features 1: Safety & security Late hours, 24/7 Security patrol points Secure entry Attention to detail: eg windows in photocopying rooms Location & management of lockers PA system

Design features 2:Staff accommodation Consultation To the same finish quality as the public areas Attention to work flows Meeting space De-clutter Office etiquette

Design features 3: Environment BREEAM excellent Natural ventilation Re-use of materials Lighting design PVA array Recycling

How well has it worked? Visitor numbers doubled Very positive feedback from students Reduced need for guiding – seems to be intuitive Less stress for staff

What would we do differently? Meets current needs Compact shelving issues Fire alarms

Reflections New space demands a review of service delivery and staff roles The hardest thing to articulate and communicate is the ambience Importance of working well with the Estates team, architects and other professionals What works well for users with disabilities works well for everyone

Reflections Clarity of vision based soundly on evidence Listening to the customers and awareness of institutional culture Attention to detail No compromise on quality

“If I was to sum it up I would say it was ‘everything you need in a library’, simple as that.” (Law undergraduate)