As we move through the term, we have a few important updates to share with you since our last Summer improvements recap. These renovations are designed to improve our shared spaces, making your learning experiences even better. We’ll keep you updated on any closures or changes to access as the work progresses.

Welcome Desk: You may have noticed some building work on the first floor of the Library. We're excited to announce that the work for combining the Welcome Point and Helpdesk into one central hub is nearly complete. This new space will streamline services, making it easier for you to get the support you need in one convenient location.

Draught lobby: With the cold nights drawing in, staying warm is more important than ever. A new draught lobby will be installed during Christmas vacation to reduce heat loss and save energy. During this time, the main entrance on the first floor will be temporarily closed, but a temporary entrance and exit will be provided. Details will follow closer to the time.

Library Lighting Project: As part of the University's Smart Energy initiative, we are still in the process of upgrading the Library’s lighting system to energy-efficient LED lights. This project will cut our energy use by about 70%, helping to create a more sustainable campus. These upgrades will save a massive 545,584 kWh per year—that’s the equivalent of driving around the world 56 times in an electric car! Not only will this reduce our environmental impact, but it will also improve the quality of lighting throughout the Library for a better study environment.

Accessible library: A new Assistive Technology area has now been set up on the floor 2 extension, featuring height-adjustable tables, private booths, and updated technology. The space is expected to open soon once the lighting project is completed. Accessible Study rooms in the Main Library have also been given a fresh look with new paint, furniture, and storage.

As a reminder, the Library offers a number of services and facilitiesLink opens in a new window to support students with disabilities or learning differences, including bookable accessible rooms for study.

Biomed Grid: Following some light refurbishments, the BioMed Grid is now open again with extended hours of 8:00 AM to midnight, 7 days a week.

Student hub for PGT students studying Science for Sustainable Futures: As part of the STEM connect project, an area within Learning Grid 1 in University house has now been made into a student hub primarily for PGT students on Science for Sustainable Futures courses. As a reminder, the remainder of Learning Grid 1 is still open as usual to all students, as is the Learning Grid 2 space on the ground floor.