The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) has unveiled its new-look library well ahead of schedule – it is now home to more computers than ever before.
An impressive makeover has seen a complete re-design of the ground floor, creating learning zones. These are specialist working environments to fit in with the demands of the modern day student.
Silent study areas have been fashioned on the first floor, so whether students want to study alone or in a group, in silence or quietly with other students, they will be able to find a space to suit.
Following high student demand the third floor computer area has been kitted out with 100 extra computers.
Other key benefits include a new laptop loan service which will enable any student or member of staff to borrow one of 100 free laptops from the groundfloor service point in the library, to use within the building.
Plasma television screens showing cultural events from around the world have been placed alongside daily news-papers in the cultural exchange area.
Michael Ahern, director of learning and information services, said: "We continually seek views from our students to ensure we understand how their learning needs are changing and our improvements have been inspired by this.
"We will continue to monitor what students think of the new facility during its first few weeks of use, but the initial response has been extremely positive."
He added: "We believe the new facilities that we have developed are the best of their kind anywhere in the country.
"The new library will help us to ensure that UCLan students have access to the highest quality learning resources and support services, delivered in a comfortable, creative and stimulating environment."
More than £650,000 has been invested in building on the
resources of books and technology. This includes:
n £100,000 on replacing some of the journals with electronic versions, which are easier to search and can be accessed off campus.
n £50,000 in a new Key Resources Collection, which provides two copies of each title in the collection (high demand and core texts) giving students improved access to books and articles in high demand.
n £500,000 on improving all the electronic resources available, so even more books are now available online.
These are accessible from anywhere, on campus, at work or home.
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