November update on the Learning Commons project

Dear Colleagues,

I write with a brief update on the Learning Commons project.

Renovation of the Library remains on schedule and on budget. The new front windows have now been installed and work on the roof is scheduled to be finished by Christmas. Beginning this week, the contractor will be installing new windows for the remainder of the building. This work is also scheduled to be completed by the holidays. Inside the building, the focus recently has been on installation of drywall and construction of the agora steps. Pictures of these developments are posted below.

On the collections management front, preparations for the big move back to the Library are well underway. Activity there will intensify as the opening date approaches. Librarians and library staff recently completed measuring the physical extent of the general collection as it currently stands. The data gathered will help librarians make final decisions about how the collections may best be spread throughout the newly renovated spaces.

The SRC conducted a student survey on furniture preferences for study spaces in October. Our architects have the results of that survey and are currently weighing options on the basis of information provided there.

Last Friday, a team of 3 students from Dr. Riddell’s communications course – Aidan Cooke, Marie Pelletier-Matte and Pascal Talon – rolled out for the Learning Commons Executive Committee a communications plan for the run-up to the opening of the new building. Their idea is to preview the spaces of the Learning Commons at regular intervals over the Winter, Spring and Summer so that the community is optimally informed as to what is on offer there prior to moving in September 2018. Their work was excellent – at once entertaining and informative. We look forward to the launch of these features in January.

Wishing everyone a successful end of semester,

Jamie Crooks
Director, Learning Commons Project
Bishop’s University