by Emma Francombe

The new extension at the Main Library was opened to students this week, offering 500 extra study spaces, and increasing the library size by 42%.

As the doors were opened on Monday afternoon, many students were anxious to see the results of the construction work, and the reaction so far has been very positive.

One student commented that “as soon as the announcement came over the PA system that the new section of the library was open, many people starting whispering before migrating in small groups to the new wing. It was amusing to see how excited students were at the prospect of a new place to study”.

On Tuesday, records showed that 1045 people entered the library, and before the redevelopment, this would have left almost 350 people without a seat, so the improvements are evidently conducive to more active study time, and have encouraged more students to venture down.

The success of the £11 million redevelopment has also been documented on Twitter, and with many finalists upset that they only have two months left to enjoy the new facilities, it seems that the work has all been worthwhile.

Despite the fact that there is some final work to be completed in the upcoming weeks, the improvements so far have been well received, especially given that all the new study areas have full access to power connections and Internet access. Further planned developments, such as the installation of book shelving, and the reorganization of the Main Library book stock, have been postponed until all the end of the examination period.

Jon Purcell, Librarian at the Main Library, said: “We are excited to announce the opening of the Main Library’s East Wing ahead of the busy Easter term. The completed extension has been beautifully designed to create a light and spacious study environment.

“The new facilities, including better provision for students to use their own laptops and a range of group and individual study areas, mean that students will have more choice and flexibility when studying at the Main Library. I hope that students will make effective use of this fantastic new space”.