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By Omesh
Jagarnath
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Libraries
are constantly evolving to meet the needs of its users in an effort to provide
an efficient and excellent service to its patrons. Hence, the re-configuring of
space to improve both security (of staff and student library assistants who are
employed in the evenings), as well as academic reserve books and ensuring a
centralised service point for users, is something that has been under
discussion for many months.
At the EGM library, Howard College Campus, an
existing space, namely the old Research Commons, was identified by the space
committee and in consultation with the circulation staff, this space was seen
as ideal for reconfiguration.
The
existing infrastructure was already in place, namely an enclosed glass
partition with swipe access. Work on this new space commenced in November 2019
with the removal of the old furniture and computers, while a contractor was
called to reconfigure the glass to create a window like opening for the counter
on both sides of the room.
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| WINDOW LIKE OPENING |
Work on
reconfiguring the interior and creating the Issue and Return counters began in
early December 2019. As there was no budget for the project, library staff took
it upon themselves to purchase material for this space.
Mr
Richard Goodall, a jack of all trades, decided to put his carpentry skills to
good use.
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Taking
Shape
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Staff Workstations
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It has taken hours of labour and planning to ensure that the work
done is professional and attractive. The above pictures shows the staff
workstations being configured.
Completion – Service Point for Library
Users - View from the outside
It has taken almost two and half months to complete the
configuration with minor alterations and final touches added as we go along.
Staff moved into the new space on the 13th February 2020.
There has been a lot of
positive comments from some academics who were amazed by the quality of the
workmanship, so all credit goes to Mr Goodall.
Wow great work. A lot of thought and energy was put into this project.
ReplyDeleteInteresting blog. Lovely pictures. Excellent workmanship. Is Mr Goodall available to upgrade all the Circulation Desks across the UKZN libraries?
ReplyDeleteDid the staff really purchase the material for the space? Why should staff use their own finances when there should be a library budget to upgrade work spaces? Surely, a budget should be set aside for these things because work spaces are evolving constantly. Upgrading the inside of libraries makes them more welcoming to students and gives a positive impression to visitors and the university community alike. Staff should not be footing the bill for such projects.
The end result is very beautiful. Congratulations to Mr Goodall for a job well done!