The Library will be completing a number of building works over the quieter summer period to keep our building up to scratch. The improvements will include:

Additional Assistive Technology area as part of our Accessible Library offer

The Library has a range of services and assistive technologies available to help make our resources and facilities accessible to everyone, including an Assistive Technology area on floor 1, and Accessible and Sensory Study rooms in the main Library, Rootes Learning Grid, and PG Hub. We are expanding on this provision over the summer period with an additional Assistive Technology area installation on the floor 2 extension. This new area will have height adjustable tables, separated booths, and new technology, and is situated within a Library quiet zone. The space will be fully open in Autumn term 2024.

Biomed Grid closure for essential maintenance works

The biomed will be temporarily closed during August and September while essential maintenance works are carried out. Other spaces will be available on campus for study, including the main library. The reopening date is expected to be 22nd September.

Library lighting project, floor closures, and alternative arrangements

The University is working on a Smart Energy project in the Library to replace the current lighting with more efficient LED lighting that will reduce energy consumption by around 70%. The new system will have wireless smart controls with active daylight dimming and open protocol integration to offer flexibility and programmability. The new lighting will provide real-time occupancy and energy data reports to maximise space utilisation, as well as to optimise and manage consumption. Overall, these changes will enable energy savings of 545,584 kWh per year, which is equivalent to travelling 56 times around the world in an average electric car.

Due to the extensive work required parts of the Library will need to be closed off in order to enable the works. During these partial closures Library materials effected will still be accessible, via our Click & Collect service.

Areas and dates affected include:

· Library Fourth, Fifth Floor & Library Staircases: Monday 1 July 2024 - Friday 9 August 2024.

· Library Third Floor, Library Extension Third Floor & Library Extension Staircases: Monday 12 August 2024 - Friday 20 September 2024.

· Library Ground Floor & Library Extension Second Floor: Monday 23 September 2024 - Friday 1 November 2024

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

Main Library entrance improvements and Welcome Point/Helpdesk refurbishment

Enhancements to the main library entrance, Welcome Point, and Helpdesk are scheduled for the summer vacation. These improvements include a refurbishment of the first-floor entrance to reduce energy consumption, featuring a new draft lobby to minimize heat loss. Additionally, we are combining the Welcome Point and Helpdesk into a single, unified desk to provide a seamless customer service experience for library users.

During these works, the main entrance on the first floor will be temporarily closed and a temporary entrance and exit will be provided. The Café Library on the ground floor will remain accessible throughout the construction period.