The Library was originally constructed in 1967 and has been developed over the years to provide a flexible, inspiring, technology-enabled environment with a range of individual and group workspaces to support different learning styles. The building design maximises natural light and offers a significant increase in power and data provision.

This next phase of development aims to expand the Library by 2600m², a space equivalent to the size of around three and a half tennis courts per floor, via an extension to the western elevation, opposite LEC on Library Avenue.

Designs are at early stages but outline plans suggest the building will comprise of four floors; three to increase study space in the Library and an independently accessed lower ground floor that will provide a fully-accessible space for teaching and use by societies.

The Facilities Estates Development team are working with a group of stakeholders throughout the project, including the Students’ Union and senior members of the Library management team. Scott Brownrigg are appointed as the Architects to deliver the building designs and conduct a series of consultation events with a range of stakeholders throughout the University.

Anna Cockman, Facilities Development Manager leading the project said, “It’s really important that we gather as much feedback from stakeholders at this stage so that we can capture this in the building design. We are working with Lancaster University Students’ Union and Library staff and will be consulting with students and staff from across campus over the next few months.”

Pete Maggs, Director of Library Services and Learning Development said, “This is an incredibly exciting announcement. This major investment by the University in teaching and study space will deliver a versatile and inspiring contemporary study environment that caters for a range of scholarly activities and different methods of study - but that also addresses the well-being of users.”

The refurbishment will target the BREEAM environmental performance ‘Excellent’ standard. Construction is planned to start in November 2019.