Big changes are coming to the R. Howard Webster Library. In January, the university will begin a four-phase, three-year transformation project that will increase space by 27 per cent and raise the number of study seats by 113 per cent. The plans also include plenty of room for active and collaborative learning, and intensive study.
Here’s a quick overview of what to expect.
Move of Interlibrary Loans
On December 12, Interlibrary Loans (ILL) will move from LB-345 to LB-331. The ILL office will close at 3 p.m. on December 12 and reopen in its new location on December 17.
Temporary closure of LB3 East
As part of the temporary closure of LB3 East, student computers, DPrint machines and furniture will all be relocated from LB3 East to LB4.
LB3 East will close on December 15 to provide construction crews with the access they need to deliver Phase 1 of the transformation in fall 2015.
To minimize noise and construction-related disturbances, a temporary corridor will be built leading from the freight elevator in LB3 south to the work area in LB3 East.
Every possible step has been taken to minimize noise on LB3. However, library staff are encouraging users to visit other floors of the Webster Library, or consider visiting the Grey Nuns Reading Room on the Sir George Willams Campus, or the Georges P. Vanier Library on the Loyola Campus.
Fall 2015 opening of LB3 East
When construction walls are dismantled in September 2015, users will discover a brand-new LB3 East, boasting wider, open spaces, more natural light, two enclosed reading rooms, 204 seats at tables, 154 seats at carrels for silent study and 96 seats at tables equipped with desktop computers.
The renovated wing’s 454 new, individual spaces are planned in response to concerns that students voiced in multiple surveys and comments on library services.
Your feedback is making this happen
University Librarian Guylaine Beaudry expressed her gratitude to the more than 300 students who participated in the furniture consultations for the Webster Library Transformation project, held from October 27 to November 14.
“Your insightful comments on the fabric, texture, height and ergonomics of our furniture samples have been invaluable in our decision-making process,” she says. “Expect to hear more about what furniture we will be installing.”
Keep up to date on what’s happening during the Webster Transformation Project by reading our blog and visiting our project web page to find out more. You can also send us your comments and questions.