I visited the impressive new SciTech Library on Saturday. It was beautifully light and the space had a 'fun' kinda feel. All the furniture is very funky, with chairs in interesting shapes, study 'booths' with white-board tables, and lots of tables and chairs that can be moved about as needed. The designers were obviously focused on collaborative learning, as well as aiming to inspire the students in their studies through design. The Library includes a kitchen with microwave, and encourages students to see it as a "third place" where they can study, socialise, create, and eat too!
There's no reference collection, as the good stuff is all online and interfiled into the collection. But there is a stage area where ideas can be showcased. Loved the unimposing reference desks so that students can feel more at ease when they need assistance with the resources.
