Nomad RDC - Series A - Campus and Learning Spaces

Learning spaces are changing - fast. From campuses to libraries to workplaces, sociocultural shifts and the legacy of the pandemic are reshaping how these environments are designed and experienced. At Nomad, we’ve been immersed in these changes. Our Nomad Stories – Series A brings together a collection of blog pieces exploring the big themes shaping the future of learning spaces, including: 🔹 Innovation in a Changing Funding Landscape 🔹 Universities in the Multiverse: Shaping the Future of Campus Spaces 🔹 Designing the Future: Campus Spaces in a Post-Pandemic World 🔹 People-Centred Design: Getting it Right the First Time 🔹 The Importance of Identity in Post-Pandemic UK University Campus Spaces 🔹 Future Libraries: Community and Connection

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Story No.1 - Part 01

campuses in numerous nuanced ways. Here are some that we think are important; Space and Reputation: Universities compete not only on academic reputation but also on facilities and identity. Prospective students prefer institutions with modern, well- maintained campuses that reflect the university’s unique culture and values. Without capital investment in amenities and the physical representation of their identity, universities risk blending into the mass of similar institutes, making it harder to attract top students in a competitive global market. Student Facilities: Modern, well- equipped learning and teaching spaces tailored to each institution’s specific needs are essential for delivering a quality educational experience. Universities require a wide variety of these spaces to support diverse academic programs. Without sufficient

Innovation in a changing funding landscape The lack of capital investment in UK university campuses poses significant challenges, impacting everything from the quality of education and research to the student experience and institutional competitiveness. Addressing these issues requires a balanced approach that considers both immediate needs and long-term strategic goals, emphasising the importance of securing sustainable funding streams to support the ongoing development and modernisation of university facilities. At Nomad, we have been researching, co-designing, and envisioning academic spaces since our inception. We are deeply invested in how these spaces influence student and staff experience and wellbeing. Naturally, when spending is cut, we are concerned not only for our business but also for the future of university spaces. Lack of investment can impact

Universities compete not only on academic reputation but also on facilities and identity.

capital investment, institutions risk relying on a one-size-fits-all approach or maintaining outdated facilities, which can negatively impact students’ learning experiences and academic outcomes. Sticky Campus: The concept of a “Sticky Campus” is crucial to many institutions. Universities can foster greater student engagement and deeper connections with peers and faculty by offering inviting and versatile spaces designed for studying, collaboration, and social interaction. This supports better learning outcomes and student wellbeing and contributes to higher retention rates and a stronger institutional identity. Unfortunately, these spaces are often seen as non-essential and are among the first to be cut when costs must be reduced. Ageing Space: Many UK university campuses are housed in buildings that are several decades old. Without adequate capital spending, these buildings can suffer from structural issues and outdated facilities. This often results in critical timescales that require immediate solutions, lacking long-term planning and focusing on short-term fixes. As highlighted by the recent Raac crisis, even relatively new buildings can face shutdowns or demolition if not properly maintained. Overcrowding: Without expansion or refurbishment, existing facilities can become overcrowded, leading to a diminished quality of life for students and staff. Overcrowded libraries, study spaces, and recreational facilities can negatively affect academic performance satisfaction and wellbeing.

Without sufficient capital investment, institutions risk relying on a one-size- fits-all approach or maintaining outdated facilities, which can negatively impact students’ learning experiences and academic outcomes.

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Part 02 In Part 1, we concluded that cuts in university capital spending, rather than stifling creativity, can ignite innovative ideas that shape the future of campus development. At Nomad, we have been through many financial storms, and these challenges often bring out our most creative solutions. We have successfully guided clients through these tough times with fresh, forward- thinking approaches. In this post, we will explore some of the solutions we have developed in collaboration with our clients. Addressing space challenges in universities with limited budgets requires creative, cost-effective strategies that optimise resources and align with long-term goals. The strategies our clients typically use to address budget constraints range from quick fixes like flexible modular designs to more ambitious efforts such as repurposing existing spaces or renovating historic buildings. The Heart of Campus project at Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) is a prime example of these strategies. This project aimed to maximise space and enhance the student experience at a city-bound site by connecting three key university buildings through extensive refurbishment. The Heart of Campus introduced flexible spaces, including an arrival pavilion with a bespoke exhibition area, a multi-functional conference facility, a Student Services mall, a 500-seat restaurant, a boutique café, and several drop-in learning spaces, all linked by a landscape project that added much- needed parkland to the city centre. Many of these spaces are highly flexible, supporting various uses. The Study Club is particularly noteworthy, as it is student-run and can be used day or night for individual study, group work, or seminars. It features sliding screens for adjustable space division, modular furniture, and deep steps that double as seating for meetings, film screenings, and gatherings.

Experimental Teaching & Learning Spaces While GCU refurbished its existing space, King’s College London transformed the ground floor of the historic Somerset House into a suite of experimental teaching and learning spaces. Designed primarily for the K+ widening participation program, these spaces are flexible enough to support all students across the Strand Campus. The renovation includes six specialised rooms, such as the “Build It” room, where modular furniture can be moved, stored, or altered to fit each group with ease. The teaching spaces are connected by a generous circulation hall that takes advantage of the natural architectural alcoves to create places to meet and intimate one-to-one The pandemic forced many of our clients to rethink their approach, accelerating the evolution of ideas such as shared spaces, hybrid and online learning, virtual labs/ classrooms, and hot desking/co-working spaces. These innovations significantly reduce the need for physical space, allowing institutions to reimagine their campuses. contemplative spaces. Pandemic Innovation The Vision Project at Edinburgh Napier University (ENU) was a comprehensive, people-centred engagement initiative aimed at reimagining the university’s estate across all three campuses and setting the stage for transformative change. It resulted in eight project packages that featured many of these ideas, such as: + Study Lounges in the library and all learning spaces featuring privacy pods for one-on-one or hybrid meetings. + Installing specialist high-power hardware and accessories to support a hybrid culture. + Ensuring a good distribution of virtual simulation spaces throughout all disciplines to support immersive learning and provide “real-life” work experiences. + Equipping students with the

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The Study Club is student-run and can be used day or night for individual study, group work, or seminars.

opportunity to acquire specialist practical skills by providing space and facilities to simulate lab techniques. The concept of VR/AR and hybrid spaces expanded beyond traditional teaching and learning spaces into workspaces, both academic and professional. The Research Quarters concept, which includes R&I quarters on each campus, promotes collaboration and community in spaces designed for innovation. ENU is currently exploring cutting-edge technology to support AR/VR, but an early exploration of virtual space can be seen in our previous project for King’s College London. The 360 Room teaching space uses simple projection technology to create a 360-degree immersive environment, supported by flexible modular furniture solutions and teaching aids. Although the pandemic pushed academic spaces to consider hot desking and hybrid working, these concepts have existed in the commercial sector for some time. So when the European Central Bank (ECB) approached us to explore the potential of a hybrid, activity-based workplace in Frankfurt, we were delighted yet surprised that such a global organisation was still operating in a traditional on-site, cellular manner. The project involved participants from several different European countries in a series of creative design sessions. Solutions included: Cubics: A modular range of meeting spaces, from individual ‘phone booths’ to four-to-six-person hangouts. The Cubics can be installed individually or as a group in larger spaces. Shelters: A micro-architecture work and meeting space solution, including indoor and outdoor models, designed to give people a sense of privacy and safety while transitioning to a more activity-based work model Biophilia: Gardens and outdoor spaces where people can relax, unwind, gather for events or collaborate on projects.

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“Spending money on the things that students can touch, can feel, can tast, will yeil the greatest return”

The pandemic also encouraged a broader adoption of creative, quick-fix solutions, such as pop-up or temporary structures, outdoor learning, and meeting spaces. Many of our clients have been early adopters of these solutions, as seen with the Saltire Centre at GCU way back in 2006, a precursor to the Heart of Campus project, where we installed inflatable rooms and giant canopies on the ground floor. Both ECB and ENU embraced the idea of outdoor pavilions where people can meet, work, dwell or gather for events. Outdoor spaces were among the eight project packages participants developed as part of the ENU Vision Project. Among the many great ideas were pavilions, amphitheatres, marquees, chat tracks, and generally blurring the boundaries between inside and outside, an approach previously used in the landscape of the Heart of Campus project, which was explicitly designed to extend the internal learning spaces into the landscape, creating this type of permeable boundary. The future of UK universities hinges on their ability to adapt to the ongoing challenges posed by insufficient capital investment. By embracing innovative, cost-effective strategies and reimagining the use of existing spaces, institutions can continue to provide high-quality education, enhance student experiences, and maintain their competitiveness in a global market. As we look ahead, securing sustainable funding and fostering collaborative partnerships will be crucial in ensuring that university campuses remain vibrant, functional, and inspiring spaces for generations to come.

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ECB WorkSpirit Biophilia Project

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Story No.2

experience for everyone on campus. These spaces are designed to adapt effortlessly to different needs. Interdisciplinary hubs become learning zones, and lecture halls can shift into conference venues or even community event spaces. Centralising services within these multi-facilities not only optimises space but also encourages cross-disciplinary interaction and collaboration. Pioneering The Saltire Centre at Glasgow Caledonian University, a pioneering multi-facility since 2006, remains a prime example of this approach. By integrating the library with student services, flexible learning areas, social spaces, even the university café it provided an early template for how universities can unite various services under one roof. Building on this model, Edge Hill University’s Catalyst project employed

Multiverse The idea of “multi” is everywhere in our daily lives—multi-purpose tools, multi- talented individuals, multi-functional gadgets, and even the multiverse. Just as the multiverse connects space, time, and matter, university multi-facilities unite various functions, services, and communities within a single, adaptable framework. These spaces act as mini-physical representations of the multiverse, where diverse functions coexist, intersect, and evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of their users. Multi-facility strategies are transforming university campuses by offering flexible, dynamic environments that cater to the diverse University Universe. In the UK, where financial and spatial pressures are common, these multi-functional spaces present a creative solution. By maximising existing facilities, universities can minimise the need for new construction while enhancing collaboration and improving the overall

Multi-facilities are transforming university campuses by offering flexible, dynamic environments catering to the diverse University Universe.

similar features like acoustic zoning, modular fittings, and micro-architecture to create a efficient and adaptable space that responds to the needs of its users. A Heart of Campus Multi-purpose spaces, like those at GCU’s Heart of Campus, further demonstrate multi-facilities’ versatility. Here, spaces seamlessly shift between uses, turning lecture halls into conference venues or transforming study areas into vibrant social hubs. By maximising every square inch, these environments invite collaboration and engagement across disciplines, drawing together diverse users to contribute to a richer, interconnected whole. Innovation labs and creative studios within these spaces offer dedicated zones for interdisciplinary collaboration, while universities are increasingly partnering with external organisations, such as health centres and business hubs. These partnerships enhance the possibilities for students, giving them access to real-world learning opportunities and professional networks, improving connections between the campus and the external community. Technology Smart technology is vital in managing these complex, multi-functional environments. Real-time room booking systems, virtual collaboration platforms, and hybrid workspaces make these facilities more user-friendly and efficient. Meanwhile, sustainability continues to be a central theme, with energy- efficient buildings and shared green spaces playing a key role in reducing the environmental impact of university operations. Napier University’s Vision project encapsulates these trends. Developed in the post-pandemic era, this initiative introduced ideas such as research hubs, business partnerships, hybrid learning spaces, and a focus on sustainable design. Shared outdoor spaces for study and meetings were a particular highlight, promoting collaboration in a natural setting. The project’s proposal for a new campus, which began as a virtual model and later evolved into a physical space, demonstrates the idea of co-locating support services, residential areas, and

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Spaces seamlessly shift between uses, turning lecture halls into conference venues or transforming study areas into vibrant social hubs.

social functions to create a vibrant, unified community. Multi-functional Campuses From the Saltire Centre at Glasgow Caledonian University to Napier University’s Vision project, the multiverse of university spaces continues to evolve. These projects embody the spirit of unification, blending academic, social, and professional dimensions within cohesive, flexible environments where students, staff, and external partners interact seamlessly. Through phased development and adaptable design, universities are creating dynamic, multi-functional campuses that not only meet current spatial challenges but also promote sustainability, collaboration, and community engagement for generations to come.

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Story No.3 *

navigate shifting priorities around health, safety, and wellbeing while managing tight budgets and competing investment priorities. Reimagine As institutions reimagine campus life, they face the challenge of future- proofing their spaces, ensuring sustainability, and engaging their communities during this period of rapid change. Successfully addressing these uncertainties will require flexible approaches to campus planning. The focus should be on creating resilient, responsive spaces that can evolve as needs shift. Like most businesses, universities must stay attuned to emerging trends, involve their communities, and make strategic investments to tackle these challenges effectively. King’s College London At the start of the pandemic, we designed a new type of space for

Campus Space in a Post-Pandemic World A cloud of uncertainty surrounds the future landscape of many institutions and businesses in the post-pandemic world, stemming from rapid cultural shifts, technological innovation, and changing user expectations. Universities, in particular, are rethinking how they manage their expansive campuses as they adapt to new demands for space, technology, and student services. Evolving balance The evolving balance between in-person and online learning makes it difficult to predict future space needs, while hybrid models may reduce on-campus engagement, impacting everything from student housing to dining services. Meanwhile, the growing reliance on digital tools raises questions about IT infrastructure, equitable access, and the need for more flexible, adaptable environments. Universities must also

King’s College London, anticipating many of these challenges. Ironically, due to the lockdown, the project was never realised. Now, as we reflect on the post-pandemic landscape, we are struck by how valid many of these predictions were, inspiring us to take this opportunity to share those insights The proposed space, located in a 1970s brutalist structure overlooking the River Thames, aimed to provide a space on campus supporting hybrid and solo activities, where students could study or remotely participate in seminars in a safe environment, promoting a sense of health and well-being. Modularity The modular, customisable layout was centred around a key feature that created pockets of space for groups and individuals, encouraging social interaction and distancing opportunities. Inspired by the River and the landscape beyond, this central element bridged the interior and exterior workspaces, expanding onto a terrace overlooking the River. Indoor and outdoor planting created areas for growing herbs and vegetables, while a biodome offered a safe, adaptable space for outdoor group events and hybrid meetings. In reflecting on our design for King’s College London and the challenges faced by universities today, it is clear that future campus spaces must be adaptable, inclusive, and responsive to changing needs. The pandemic accelerated trends that were already emerging, emphasising the importance of flexible spaces that support both physical and digital interactions while prioritising wellbeing. As universities continue to evolve, investing in thoughtful, resilient design will be crucial to creating environments that not only meet current demands but also inspire and engage future generations. By embracing innovation and staying connected to the needs of their communities, institutions can transform uncertainty into an opportunity for growth and positive change.

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Story No.4

Getting it right the first time in large- scale building projects isn’t just about saving time or money—it’s about creating environments that are functional, sustainable, adaptable, innovative, and tailored to the real needs of the people using them. These spaces need to support the institution’s mission and uphold its reputation. At the Green Heart Project for the University of Birmingham, we collaborated with Chris Churchman, Landscape Architects, to explore what kind of landscape was most meaningful to students and best reflected the University’s identity. Most university projects come with significant budgets, and by getting things right from the start, you avoid costly redesigns, rebuilds, or retrofitting that can cause delays and disrupt teaching, research, and student life.

Getting it right the first time There are so many benefits to a people- centred design approach, but the biggest one, especially in the university sector, is simple: it helps get the project right the first time. Vision Breifs Over the years, we have often been called into projects at worryingly late stages to fix problems or redirect the design using a human-centred strategy to deliver stronger, more relevant results. Initially, our people-centred tools were used to enhance briefs we were already working on as designers. It was not until several years later that our first Vision Brief was commissioned by King’s College London for their Quadrangle project. Today, nearly 50% of our work focuses on creating these Vision Briefs for a variety of clients, from universities and libraries to banks and theatres.

People-centred projects University buildings need to be flexible, adaptable, and capable of handling future changes in education, technology, and growth without the price tag of major renovations. A well-designed, people-centred project taps into the expertise of end-users, from students to staff, turning their insights into vibrant spaces that reflect community spirit, cultural identity, and human connection. This is how you ensure the project gets it right from day one. In addition, these projects can boost an institution’s reputation and build trust with staff, stakeholders, and the wider community. When we were brought on to collaborate with staff at the European Central Bank to develop a vision for new activity-based workspaces, the participants were initially disengaged— tired of consultations that never seemed to lead anywhere. But after just one design jam, they identified dozens of challenges and brainstormed solutions. Over time, these design jams built upon each other, allowing us the space to access the participants’ knowledge and for them to develop their ideas. The WorkSpirit Project resulted in a massive shift that continues to evolve and improve the work landscape at ECB. Relevant places Vision Briefs are vital—not only for delivering the essential information needed to design innovative, relevant places but also for promoting projects, gathering support, and unlocking funding. The “If” project at the University of Warwick was a people- centred project that primarily involved student interviews; by accessing the student voices, the University secured support and funding to replace its outdated humanities facility, resulting in a Sterling Prize-winning building.

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UoW IF Comms

Getting it right the first time isn’t just about saving time or money—it’s about creating environments that are functional, sustainable, adaptable, innovative, and tailored to the needs of the people using them.

Three key outcomes: For us, a successful people-centred project needs to deliver three key outcomes to ensure success from the start: + An engaging, fun experience for everyone involved. + Concrete, actionable insights that can directly translate into the design of spaces, objects, or services. + Strong, evidence-based results founded on a solid methodology. New tools We are now in the final stages of developing two tools to make this process even smoother: the People + Places app, which helps decision-makers build solid briefs at the earliest stages of a project, and our Design Jam Cards, which offer a guide to running your own co-design workshops using our tried-and-tested activities. Both tools are designed with one goal in mind—to help clients get their projects right the first time. Incorporating a people-centred approach is more than just a design method—it’s a philosophy that ensures spaces truly meet users’ needs from the outset. By putting human insight and engagement at the heart of the process, we create not just functional and adaptable spaces but meaningful, long-lasting environments. Whether working through Vision Briefs or tools like the People + Places app, our goal is always the same: to help our clients get it right the first time.

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Story No.5

The importance of identity in post- pandemic UK university campus spaces cannot be overstated. As universities navigate the new realities brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, the concept of identity—both individual and institutional—has become a crucial element in shaping the future of campus environments. Here’s why identity matters in this context: 1. Reinforcing a Sense of Belonging Community Rebuilding: The pandemic disrupted the traditional university experience, leading to a sense of isolation among students and staff. As campuses reopen, re-establishing a strong sense of identity can help rebuild the community spirit, fostering a sense of belonging and connection among students, faculty, and staff. Spaces that reflect the university’s values, history, and culture can help reinforce this sense of belonging. Personal Connection: Identity-rich spaces allow students and staff to feel

personally connected to the university, which is particularly important after a period of physical and emotional disconnection. Whether through familiar architectural features, campus traditions, or symbols of the institution’s legacy, these elements help individuals re-establish their connection to the university community. 2. Attracting and Retaining Students Differentiation in a Competitive Market: In a highly competitive educational landscape, universities must differentiate themselves to attract students. A campus that has a clear and compelling identity can stand out in the minds of prospective students. This identity might be reflected in the design of buildings, the integration of digital and physical spaces, and the overall atmosphere of the campus. Student Retention : A strong campus identity contributes to student

satisfaction and retention. When students feel that they are part of a community with a distinct character and values, they are more likely to stay and engage with their studies. This sense of identity can be fostered through spaces that are not only functional but also meaningful and reflective of the student body’s diversity and aspirations. 3. Reflecting Institutional Values and Mission Communicating Purpose: Campus spaces are a physical manifestation of a university’s mission, values, and educational philosophy. Post- pandemic, as universities reassess their priorities, it’s essential that their campuses reflect these values. For example, spaces dedicated to sustainability, inclusivity, or innovation can clearly communicate the university’s commitment to these principles. Cultural Identity: Universities are often steeped in tradition and history, which form a significant part of their identity. Post-pandemic, there is an opportunity to blend these traditions with modern, flexible spaces that accommodate new ways of learning and interacting, while still preserving the institution’s unique cultural identity. 4. Supporting New Modes of Learning Flexible Learning Spaces: The pandemic has accelerated the shift towards hybrid and flexible learning models. As universities redesign their campuses, the identity of these spaces should support diverse learning styles and technological integration while maintaining a cohesive campus character. Identity can be reinforced through design elements that unify different types of spaces, whether they are classrooms, study areas, or online platforms. Inclusive Spaces: Post-pandemic, there is a greater emphasis on creating inclusive environments that cater to diverse student populations. Spaces that embody inclusivity as part of the university’s identity can help ensure that all students feel welcome and valued, regardless of their background or learning preferences. 5. Enhancing Well-being and Mental Health Safe and Welcoming Environments: The pandemic has heightened awareness of mental health and well-being. Campus spaces that reflect a nurturing, inclusive

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identity can help promote well-being. This might include the use of natural light, green spaces, and areas designed for relaxation and socialization, all of which contribute to a positive campus experience. Identity as Stability: In uncertain times, a strong, consistent campus identity can provide a sense of stability and continuity for students and staff. This is particularly important as universities navigate the ongoing challenges of the pandemic and beyond. A campus that feels grounded in a clear identity can offer reassurance and a sense of security. 6. Promoting Inclusivity and Diversity Representation in Design: Identity in campus spaces should reflect the diversity of the university community. This includes designing spaces that are accessible and welcoming to all, and that celebrate different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. In the post-pandemic era, there is an opportunity to reimagine spaces to be more inclusive, ensuring that the campus identity is one that everyone can relate to and feel a part of. Cultural Spaces: Incorporating spaces that celebrate the diverse cultural identities within the university community can help promote understanding and inclusivity. These might include multicultural centers, spaces for student organizations, and areas that highlight the contributions of various cultural groups to the university’s history and success. 7. Adapting to Future Challenges Resilience and Adaptability: A strong campus identity can help universities remain resilient in the face of future challenges. By embedding flexibility and adaptability into the campus’s identity—whether through multipurpose spaces, adaptive reuse of buildings, or integrating digital and physical environments—universities can better respond to future disruptions. Future-Proofing: As universities plan for the future, their identity must evolve to remain relevant. This involves not only preserving the core aspects of their identity but also being open to change and innovation. A campus that balances tradition with forward-thinking design can help future-proof the university and ensure its continued success. Conclusion Identity in post-pandemic UK university campus spaces is a crucial factor in shaping the future of higher education. It influences everything from student experience and well-being to institutional reputation and adaptability. As universities rebuild and reimagine their campuses, a strong, inclusive, and flexible identity will be key to creating environments that are not only functional but also meaningful and reflective of the communities they serve.

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KCL K+ Signage

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Story No.6

Libraries are undergoing a transformation, embracing digital and technological innovations to stay relevant in an evolving world. Surprisingly, the pandemic became a catalyst for transformation, pushing libraries to find creative ways to deliver services remotely and maintain community connections despite physical restrictions. This period accelerated a long-awaited shift—towards a library service that is both forward-thinking and deeply community-focused. For over fifteen years, we have worked closely with community and academic libraries, evolving alongside them. We have witnessed first-hand the challenges facing the sector and have gained invaluable insights from diverse stakeholders. Recent years, however, have been particularly revealing, and we have engaged in three distinctive projects exploring the future of libraries in unique ways.

Forward, a creative consultation commissioned by the Scottish Library and Information Council, involved collaborating with librarians across Scotland to explore the library’s physical and digital role in a post-Covid landscape. This project culminated in a toolkit designed by librarians to aid libraries in making their service relevant to their community. Mitchell 23 was a people-centred visioning project commissioned by Glasgow Life, focusing on the future of the iconic Mitchell Library. Working with Mitchell Museum staff and citizens of Glasgow, we envisioned how this institution might serve future generations. Work in Progress, commissioned by OnFife, explored how Fife Libraries could remain relevant to users who have drifted away or never engaged with the service.

To round off the final post in this series about Universities and Libraries we wanted to share some insights we gathered along the way: Libraries recognise the importance of cohesive, well-designed spaces and services supported by clear, connected marketing and communication. They are moving away from viewing services as isolated silos and towards an integrated approach that ensures consistency and ease of access for every user. Increasingly, libraries are embracing a “hyper-local” model, creating spaces and services that prioritise people over books. Spaces are designed to be welcoming and adaptable, meeting the needs of everyone who walks through the door. While visibility and accessibility to collections remain essential, books now share space with a variety of relevant engagement opportunities. Involving the community in planning these spaces fosters authenticity, nurtures a sense of belonging, and creates places that are loved by end users. Libraries are becoming places to create and share knowledge across generations, not just to consume it. This shift has prompted libraries to expand their offerings, including maker spaces, tool libraries, co-working areas, research centres, multimedia zones, and even pop-up stalls. Spatial use is also being reimagined with sustainability in mind, placing community connection at the forefront. Libraries are creating safe, accessible community hubs that are flexible for events and activities across all age groups, adopting environmentally conscious warehousing for collections, and forming partnerships to bring library resources into community spaces. Services are also evolving with an emphasis on user experience and strategic design. Libraries are developing new service strategies focused on user experience, expanding alternative services through partnerships, and offering shared

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Libraries are becoming places to create and share knowledge across generations, not just to consume it.

community services. The future of libraries lies in balancing physical and digital spaces, navigating this hybrid space by ensuring accessibility and equity across both environments. Supporting digital accessibility, blending digital and physical resources, introducing VR and AR for new, interactive experiences, and managing challenges like e-resource licensing and pricing are all essential. As libraries evolve, they are redefining their role as dynamic, community- centred spaces that are relevant and responsive to user needs. The future library is a place where the digital and physical coexist harmoniously, knowledge is created and shared, and sustainability and inclusivity are guiding principles. Libraries are stepping up to offer vibrant, hyper-local, and future- ready spaces that enrich communities in ways we are just beginning to imagine. Project Stats Locations: 05 Mini Lunches: 04 Discovery Kits: 02 Design Jams: 04 Participants: 43

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A collection of stories from our blog exploring how universities are transforming campus spaces to meet evolving needs. Each story highlights innovative approaches for flexible, inclusive, and resilient learning environments, from adapting to funding changes and post-pandemic shifts to creating identity-driven, community-centred designs.

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