The library at UBC’s Okanagan campus is currently being transformed to better meet the diverse needs of both the expanded campus community and the general public.
“The library was originally built to accommodate approximately 3,500 students – we’ve nearly doubled our student base since then,” says Karen Hill, manager, access services at the library. “The goal of the renovations is to enhance the student learning experience and ensure our campus library remains a place where students can come together in a discipline-neutral space.”
The renovations, valued at about $800,000, are expected to be completed in August. The improvements will result in a number of significant changes to the Learning Commons and the general operation of the library. Highlights include:
· A single service point that combines circulation and reference.
· More seats
· An additional quiet reading room similar to the Field Reading Room
· Additional group study rooms
· Self-service checkout
· Self-service holds and reserves
“The seating in the library will increase by approximately 25 per cent,” says Hill. “And we always welcome community borrowers to our vibrant learning space. It is our hope that the additional space created by the renovations will encourage the public to visit the library more frequently and access the numerous resources we have available to them.”
The library will be open the following hours during the renovation:
· Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
· Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
· Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
