DOUGLAS COLLEGE
Douglas College invests $4 million to update library at New Westminster Campus

Douglas College is refreshing its New Westminster Campus library to provide a more engaging and connected study and learning space for students.

"Douglas College is continuously exploring ways to make our students' experience more productive and engaging," said Dr. Kathy Denton, Douglas College president and CEO. "The new space will be brighter and will integrate with today's latest technology."

The $4 million project is funded by Douglas College's capital reserve in combination with $2.35 million in routine capital funding from the Province. 

"Students need to spark their imaginations, so they're inspired to discover and excel, and that's why we're investing in libraries with the latest tech and design," said Melanie Mark, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training. "Libraries are places students come to re-energize and fuel their minds, so we want these learning spaces to be as supportive as possible. It's all about making life better for students so every student can reach their full potential.

When complete, the new library will boast defined collaboration space, quiet study areas, group project areas, as well as updated finishes and some new furniture. To reduce the impact to students, a majority of the work will be done during the summer term with plans for reopening part way through the fall semester. Services currently provided by the Library and Learning Center will be relocated within the New Westminster Campus and Anvil Office Tower for the duration of the renovation.  

"The Learning Resources team is most excited about improving our collaborative spaces for students and working with colleagues on integrating technology," said Trish Rosseel, Douglas College Director, Learning Resources. "The new space will be much more flexible to better support learning and research. Ultimately, we want students to feel welcome, comfortable and engaged in the library."

The refreshed space will also include updated fire sprinklers, air conditioning systems, and LED lighting.