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The critical evolution of the academic library
For many university graduates, their experience will have been punctuated by intense periods of study, research, and connection at the campus library.
However, with the rise of digital information, AI, e-learning, and even the proliferation of informal study spaces across campus, what role should the academic library play in the university experience of the future?
This question, and more, led to our study of the future of the academic library, where we spoke to senior leaders of 32 university library systems from across the globe. Our key findings from the study are found in the below reports, which present frameworks to consider how libraries can better support the strategic vision of a university.
To download the Executive Summary report, click HERE.
To download the full 32 Libraries, Opportunities and Challenges report, click HERE.
As campus master-planners and specialists in the design of tertiary education facilities, we are always looking to the future. It is our hope that it may provide meaningful guidance to those grappling with the challenge of campus planning and help answer some of questions about the future role of the academic library. If you would like to discuss the report and how it might be relevant to your campus please do not hesitate to contact me.
This study involved interviews with senior leaders of 32 university libraries in Canada, South Africa, Hawaii, United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
We thank each participant for their time and the richness of their responses, without which this research would not have been possible.
We believe this work represents the most up-to-date and complete examination of the design challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the academic library, and we’re delighted to share the insights of the study with you.
To download the Executive Summary report, click HERE.
To download the full 32 Libraries, Opportunities and Challenges report, click HERE.