NC students put down their books and took a break from studying on November 19 and 20, joining staff and faculty to celebrate the grand re-openings of the Eva M. Lewis Library at the Welland campus and the Glynn Family Library and Learning Commons at the NOTL campus.
After an extensive renovation, ncLibraries have new life breathed into them, and feature a fresh, modern design and open learning environment suited to today’s student. Cynthia Williamson, manager, Library Commons, say that the new study carrels and the increase in seating are just some of the things drawing more students to the library.
“The new library spaces are such a great improvement at the College,” said Chris Allan, second year Social Services Worker program student and NCSAC director of Community Services.
Allan helped celebrate the grand re-opening in Welland. “The library here has new contemporary and comfortable furniture, set in large open spaces that are very inviting to students. The upper level is very quiet for those who need a quiet study space, and with the new test center at the Welland Campus, it is much easier for the students who need access to it. Plus there is so much more seating available both in the upper and lower levels.”
The celebrations in NOTL and Welland included a formal ribbon cutting, cake, coffee, board games, an equipment showcase, and a visit from the beloved therapy tails.
“This renovation project was intended to meet the needs of today’s students, and reflects how they study, conduct research, work collaboratively, and relax between classes,” said Cynthia Williamson, manager at the Welland Campus Library and Learning Commons. “We hope that the renewed library spaces will aid in our students success.”
“The Glynn Library and Learning Commons renovation has created a fresh new environment that provides different spaces to address student needs,” said Gordana Vitez, manager at the NOTL Campus Library and Learning Commons. “Our staff can now deliver different types of academic support services all in one location, making getting help a simple process. We want our students to succeed and this space is helping us do this.”
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👏 Congratulations 👏 on the grand re-opening of the Niagara on the Lake Library and Learning Commons. Celebrating till 3, so come by for cake and of course don’t miss out on @Therapytailsont #myNCstory pic.twitter.com/uYUQvqiLla
— Niagara College (@niagaracollege) November 19, 2019
The libraries renovation project resulted in new furniture and more seating for students, new furniture, and a redesigned, flexible library space able accommodate individual and collaborative study and work. The coming months will bring additional improvements, including a digital makerspace at the Welland Library, featuring equipment for filming and editing media, designing graphics, and creating prototypes with a 3D printer.
The library renovations are part of Niagara College’s $65 million Campus Redevelopment project, which is creating new and expanded facilities at the Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake campuses to support growth, enhance the student experience, and expand Niagara College’s research and innovation capabilities. Visit niagaracollege.ca/campusredevelopment for more information.
