Library News

Library Renovations are in Full Swing!

Renovations

The second phase of the renovation of the John L. Haar Library is well underway! 

In the first phase of the renovation (completed August 2020) work focused on the third floor of the library, increasing study space for students. The second phase began in late March and focuses on the second or “main” floor of the library. The redesign will feature easier access to services, better traffic flow, numerous cosmetic upgrades, and more natural light. 

Here’s some highlights of what we’re looking forward to: 

  • New grand staircase – The staircase in building 7 is getting a makeover into a long grand staircase. It will also be moved back a bit to make more space by the service desk area. 

  • Increased natural light from the south side of the library – The Technology Support desk will be incorporated into a new central service desk. The windows behind that space will add more sunshine to the second floor. 

  • Feature wall graphic designed by student artists – Behind the updated service desk will be a feature wall designed by some of MacEwan’s graphic design students! 

  • Dedicated space for the Writing Centre and Makerspace – Both the Writing Centre and our Makerspace will have new homes and larger spaces within the library on the second floor in building 6. 

  • Better traffic flow through the central part of the library – Between classes the library becomes a high traffic area as everyone rushes to their next class. Moving the staircase back and updating our service desk will provide more space for everyone moving between buildings or waiting for assistance at the desk. 

 

Check out some progress shots of the renovations! 

A photograph from the third floor of the library looking down at the staircase in building 7. Scaffolding is surrounding the staircase.

[Here’s a shot of the staircase before demolition. It will be moved to the other end of the opening and come straight down to the second floor rather than bending in the middle.] 

 

A photograph of the space where the library service desk was. It is now demolished and the wall behind it has been removed to revel the space behind it. Flooring and ceiling have been removed and expose the concrete and wiring underneath.

[Here’s a photo of the service desk area after the old desk and wall were removed. The new desk will be a centralized place to ask all your library and tech support questions!] 

 

A photograph of a wall in the library that has been knocked out to reveal another room behind it which used to be the Exam Centre. This space will become the new Writing Centre and Makerspace. Flooring and ceiling covering have been removed exposing concrete and wiring.

[The Exam Services Centre has move to a new space on campus and the library is using the old space to create dedicated areas for the Writing Centre and Makerspace. These spaces will be in building 6 on the second floor next to the Mac computer lab.] 

 

Reopening is scheduled for the start of classes in Fall 2021. Watch for information about our grand reopening! 

In the meantime, our Library Takeout Service is available to pick up holds and ID cards, borrow laptops and other equipment, and get assistance with your library account. Research and account assistance is also available through Library Chat.