The odyssey of our transition from Library to Learning Commons is now coming to an end

Dear Colleagues,

The odyssey of our transition from Library to Learning Commons is now coming to an end.  If you’ve been in the quad since Convocation weekend, you will have seen that the landscaping around the renovated building is now nearly finished. Inside, many spaces in the wings of the building are ready to welcome shelves, books and furniture. Finishing touches continue on the center section but our contractors have consistently met their construction timelines.

Many of you will have seen University Librarian Lorraine Smith’s note of Wednesday, June 13th, advising of the closing of the Temporary Library on July 14th in order to move all holdings back into the renovated space. Our Learning Commons will be open to the public on Monday, August 20th. Anyone needing print materials during the weeks of closure and transition should contact Circulation staff prior to July 11th in order to make arrangements.

I take this opportunity to express deep gratitude on behalf of the Bishop’s community to our Librarians and Library Staff. In the space of 18 months, they have planned and executed the two largest and most complex moves in the history of the University. In the period between those events, they have made their temporary quarters welcoming, hospitable and functional. To say that these services are essential to the University is an understatement. I’m sure I speak for everyone when I wish them the best as they now take the final steps in this exciting transformation.

Sincerely,

Jamie Crooks
Director, Bishop’s University Learning Commons Project