Contrary to reports, Founder’s library isn’t going anywhere. Your President, Education and Campaigns, Nayab Cheema explains why in her latest blog.
Some of you may have seen a petition floating around Facebook regarding the closure of Founder’s library to make space for the new library which is due to open in 2017. It’s great to see so many of you get passionate about the library which is an iconic aspect of life at Royal Holloway, however, we would like to reassure you by saying that Founder’s library isn’t going anywhere.
The new library has been designed to complement Founder’s building with the idea that the two buildings will go hand-in-hand. Therefore, it is extremely important that Founder’s library continues to operate when the new library comes into being. The Founder’s West Reading Room will remain as it is currently, and there will continue to be study spaces, a staffed library service will also be provided and you can rest easy in the knowledge that there will be books on the shelves.
As your Students’ Union we would never let anything of this magnitude happen without your knowledge or input into the process; last year’s sabbatical team were involved in all the early discussions about the new library and that’s something that has continued on with this year’s sabb team. It is really important to us that in every discussion that takes place about the library, your best interests are a priority.
Brianna, your Co-President (Societies and Media) sits as your representative on the library project board, which looks at what the new library will feel like when it’s completed. At a recent meeting of the board, Brianna successfully lobbied for gender-neutral toilets to be installed in the new library!
As your President (Education and Campaigns), I sit on the project delivery groups to make sure that the library is on track for completion, but also that’s where I’m able to raise any issues that you guys may have with the actual construction, in terms of looking to minimise disruption to your everyday lives.
You can find more information about the new library here. However, if you would prefer more regular communication about the build, or a different form of communication, then please get in touch. Similarly, if you have questions or concerns about the library, please email either Brianna or myself so that we can raise these issues with appropriate College staff.
Nayab Cheema
President, Education and Campaigns