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Wills Memorial Library Centenary Refurbishment Project 2012/13

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Project Overview

Library Services in conjunction with Capital Projects, Capita Symonds and with the generous support of many kind donors are about to commence an exciting library refurbishment within the Wills Memorial Library. The Centenary Project’s objective, to enhance the features of the Wills Memorial Library and improve student facilities, will begin in June 2012, be managed in phases, and complete in October 2013.

The project, one of a number of improvements to branch libraries across the University, is the fifth refurbishment to be undertaken since 2007 and follows the successful completion of the first and second floor redesign of the Arts and Social Sciences Library earlier this year.

Wills Memorial Library users were actively involved in the design stages of the project and assisted with decisions on space configuration and the types and quantities of furniture required for the refurbished areas.

In addition to University investment we have been thrilled by the level of generous philanthropic support that we have received from alumni and other donors. A total of almost £1 million has been raised or pledged by supporters of the library. This has ensured that the refurbishment is able to meet all the needs of our users, and we remain extremely grateful.

The Wills Memorial Library is located within one of the University’s most prestigious buildings and houses the Earth Sciences and Law library collections, attracting 240,000 visits annually and lending more than 60,000 items per year. The Centenary Project encompasses refurbishment of the 1912 library south wing and the 1940’s east wing, along with the ancillary library spaces with the direct intention of conserving and enhancing the impressive Grade 2* listed building.

The aim of the refurbishment is to achieve a modern learning environment with enhanced facilities to create a welcoming and stimulating environment for library users. This will include:

  • Flexible modern study spaces including an improved wireless network and power outlets to library desks
  • The creation of a more comfortable working environment through improved heating, ventilation and lighting
  • Improved IT facilities
  • Self-service facilities

The library will remain open during the refurbishment with the majority of works being completed within vacation periods to minimise disruption to users. Project updates and stock availability will be posted periodically in the entrance to the Wills Memorial building, the library foyer, on the Library web pages and through email communications from both the Earth Sciences and Law schools.

Photo gallery

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Project Management

To meet our requirements for the project we worked with architects and specialist design firm, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, experts in interior design for public sector and historic buildings and project management consultants Capita Symonds.

Further Information

For further details on the project including news, updates and project progress, please see the blog or contact Rebecca Rose, Library Development Officer.