University of Wollongong Library

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An academic library for the University of Wollongong (Wollongong) Campus, serving the students, staff and community of the region. UOW is considered as a comprehensive institution; both teaching and research intensive, delivering a high quality curriculum and learning experience. Recognised as a young university (under 50 years), UOW (and its Library) has grown from humble beginnings to an institution with a national and global presence. The Library serves a highly networked and connected community – on and offshore.

The Library is one of the most visited and occupied facilities on campus. Demand for study spaces outstripped supply almost on a daily basis. Successful pilots for provisioning ACCESS 24/7 in an adjacent floor plate pioneered the way for 24/7 access to all three floors of the Library, significantly extending capacity and needed amenity, such as the creation of the student lounge – a safe space for refreshment.
Design principles:

• Flexibility and Choice – options to reconfigure and tailor spaces to meet needs

• Sense of Community – encouraging spontaneous interaction, collaboration and sharing

• Well-being and Safety – a safe and secure environment 24/7; connected to the outdoors and natural light; provision of amenity and downtime from extended study

• Equity and Inclusivity – all users have access to different spaces, amenities; a place to feel ‘at home’

• Accessibility and Intuitiveness – easy to navigate with movement between spaces seamless as possible; adjust behaviour according to the purpose of the space.