Spring Martlet 2017

UNIV’S NEW LIBRARY IN
NUMBER 10
‘Reading history as an undergraduate, the Univ library
was many things to me – a beautiful place to discover,
to learn, to think and just be when the rest of the
world was too overwhelming. Returning recently for
a visit, researching my historical novel, I was thrilled to
discover these qualities remain. I have no doubt that
the New Library will continue in this tradition in the
years to come.’
Charlotte Wightwick
(1997, Ancient and Modern History)
We are very happy to announce that the start of the new
academic year heralded the first major expansion to Univ’s Library
since the 1930s. Although our students were overwhelmingly
positive about Univ’s Library provision, it was clear that expansion
would allow more students to work in the library and provide
much needed space for our ever-increasing collection.
The return of 10 Merton Street to College use provided the
perfect opportunity to give our students another library, with
almost 40 additional desks and vastly increased shelf space. In
addition, we were able to respond to an increasing demand for
group-study spaces: we now have two six-seat study rooms which
can be booked by students and tutors alike.
The Old Library continues to function as our Humanities and
Science Library, while the New Library houses the Social Sciences,
Music, and our collections about Oxford, College, and books by
Old Members. The Law Library has also been incorporated into the
10 Merton Street site, with a group study room as well as access to
silent study space. For the first time ever, our Law students benefit
from having professional staff on site to assist them.
Since the New Library opened at the end of September it has
become, like the Old Library, a busy but studious place. In fact, we
recorded an increase in student numbers of almost 20% during
the first two weeks of Michaelmas term compared with the same
time last year.
The New Library is a symbol of Univ’s commitment to helping
students achieve their academic potential, and we look forward to
welcoming new students and Old Members for years to come.
Elizabeth Adams
College Librarian
‘Overall, I must have spent weeks, if not months, of my
life in Univ’s Law Library, through good times and bad.
I hope the culture of the old library lives on in the
new building and the next generation of students will
use and enjoy it to the same extent I have.’
Alex Haseler
(2014, Law)
‘I am immensely grateful for the academic support of
the University College Library and its librarians. The
Library has provided me with a 24-hour study space
for which I am thankful, especially in the early hours of
the morning before an essay deadline! The librarians
work hard to create an environment that cultivates
pedagogical achievement and they are always happy
to assist me in finding the right books. I am excited
about the library expansion and I look forward to
making full use of the New Library.’
James Kirkpatrick
(2013, Philosophy graduate)
‘The New Library has become my place of choice
to study. Tucked away in the corner of College,
it strikes the perfect balance between a quiet
working atmosphere and relaxed environment. I
am very grateful to the College for such a fantastic
transformation of 10 Merton Street.’
Oscar Marshall
(2015, Biochemistry)
‘Univ Library forms a central part of the Univ
community. It provides a daily reminder that despite
the academic challenges a given student may face, we
are all in this together. The Library acts as a source of
motivation and reassurance.’
Agatha-Christie Onwuzuruike
(2014, PPE)
THE MARTLET | SPRING 2017 19