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Learning space for the digital age: First part of the renovated campus library of the University of Kassel opened
Image: University of KasselIn the central wing, students will now find a learning space designed according to the latest findings: quiet individual workstations for individual learning as well as self-contained learning spaces for group work; in addition, spacious lounge areas for breaks and learning cubes for small groups. The different learning environments support students in their academic work during the various phases of their studies. In the first section of the building alone, which has now been opened, 500 workstations are available, with a further 430 to follow in the other two construction phases.
The first construction phase, which has now been completed, also included the most complex work. This included a ceiling breakthrough from the first to the second floor for an extension of the main staircase and the central elevator. Fire protection, building ventilation and the acoustic concept were also comprehensively modernized and brought up to the latest standards, and accessibility was increased. The construction costs totaling 7 million euros were financed by the HEUREKA program of the state of Hesse. The architectural firm KSP Jürgen Engel, Braunschweig, was commissioned with the overall planning. The design of the interiors was undertaken by the architectural firm blocher partners.
After today's inauguration of the first construction phase (Building Section B), work will begin seamlessly on the conversion of Building Section C, followed by Building Section A. The renovation of the campus library is scheduled for completion in 2019.
Paper sets the tone visually
The new interior design concept picks up on the theme of paper. Despite the high proportion of digital media, paper is still the predominant material in a library. This inspired the planners' designs: white paper in various shades, smooth or in different folds forms the basis for the design of the permanently installed fixtures such as service counters, learning cubes, coat check cabinets, etc.
"We are very pleased with the newly gained quality of stay and the individual character of the refurbished rooms. The building, which was previously rather confusing, now has a high degree of transparency and brightness, and the new guidance system makes orientation much easier. Pathways and visual axes support this, as does the newly designed color concept, which radiates timeless clarity and lightness," explained Dr. Axel Halle, Senior Library Director.
The 700,000 or so users who visit the campus library each year will also find things a lot easier in terms of self-service: new, barrier-free machines with enhanced functions are available for borrowing media, and media can be returned conveniently and paperlessly at the new return shelf. The central service desk is also quickly accessible and has a new concept to meet current needs: the university's computer center (ITS) will be represented in the future with a help desk for first-level support. More detailed inquiries and subject-specific consultation hours will take place separately in consultation niches.
The university's vice president, Prof. Dr. Ute Clement, said, "The library's new learning space was eagerly anticipated by students and significantly improves the conditions for academic work on campus. Accessibility and self-service additionally ease conditions for students with disabilities."
Level 1 of the building now also features a new parent-child room, the installation of which was supported by Kasseler Sparkasse and Micromata. The University of Kassel is certified as a family-friendly university.
Image 1 (Photo: University of Kassel):
http://www.uni-kassel.de/uni/fileadmin/datas/uni/presse/anhaenge/2016/IMG_2775.JPG
Caption: View into the lounge area of the central tract of the campus library.
Image2 (Photo: Uni Kassel):
http://www.uni-kassel.de/uni/fileadmin/datas/uni/presse/anhaenge/2016/IMG_2780_UB.JPG
Caption: Final work: Technicians install a screen in one of the modern learning cubes yesterday, Monday. These learning cubes are used for undisturbed group work.
Contact:
Dr. Axel Halle
Kassel University Library
Senior Library Director
Tel.: +49 561 804-2117
E-mail: direktion[at]bibliothek.uni-kassel[dot]de
Sibylle Kammler
Kassel University Library
Press and Public Relations
Tel.: +49 561 804-2839
E-mail: oeffentlichkeitsarbeit[at]bibliothek.uni-kassel[dot]de
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