Students leaving the Stellenbosch University Library learning commons. PHOTO: Maryam Adams
Stellenbosch University (SU) Library will undergo significant renovations over the next few months.
This is according to Japie Engelbrecht, director of facilities project management at Stellenbosch University (SU). The renovation project, valued at R19.5 million, will begin on 1 April and is expected to be completed within 9 months, said Engelbrecht.
“The proposed upgrade of the foyer and bathrooms is done to stay relevant with the way libraries across the world are developing into learning and collaboration spaces driven by the use of technology,” said Engelbrecht.
Upgrades will result in alterations to the layout of the library and include the building of new client service desks, workspaces and reading areas for students, according to Engelbrecht.
“Although renovations might disadvantage current students finding a place to study, the renovations will be beneficial in the long run,” said Siviwe Bangani, director of research services for SU’s library.
Further upgrades, according to Engelbrecht, include: the construction of a gender-neutral bathroom on the upper level of the library, a printer station, three LAN rooms, the installation of external fibre infrastructure and the upgrading of mechanical ventilation.
“This project will significantly enhance an important learning space on the Stellenbosch campus and add to the overall experience,” said Engelbrecht.
The project is funded from the University Campus Renewal Project and the contractor for the project is Bambana Management Services, according to Bangani.
“This strategic project [SU Library renovations] is in line with the university’s Vision 2040, providing the infrastructure and technology development needed to meet future demands,” said Nicolette van den Eijkel, chief director of facilities management at SU.
SU’s Vision 2040, first announced in 2019, aims to ensure that SU will be “Africa’s leading research intensive university, globally recognised as excellent, inclusive and innovative, where knowledge is advanced in service of society”, according to the strategic framework found on the SU website.
SU Library prepares for renovations, which will begin on 1 April 2021. PHOTO: Maryam Adams
The loans section of the library has been cleared out in preparation for the upcoming renovations. PHOTO: Maryam Adams
The SU Library renovation project aims to provide infrastructure and technology development needed to meet future demands, according to Nicolette van den Eijkel, chief director of facilities management at SU. PHOTO: Maryam Adams