University libraries: 10 global portraits


University library chiefs worldwide reveal the challenges they face, plans for the future, and their role in higher education

America: New York University library

Atrium of the Elmer Holmes Bobst LibraryPhotograph: Elena Olivo
Well-designed space is one of the most important services an academic library can offer, says dean of library Carol Mandel

UK: University of Manchester library

University of Manchester libraryPhotograph: University of Manchester
The library is not being used less, it's just user needs that are changing, says university librarian Janet Wilkinson – so don't forget the wifi

Japan: Hachioji library, Tama Art University

Hachioji LibraryPhotograph: Eiji Ina
A university library designed by a world-leading architect inspires and challenges in equal measure, says library head Hidemi Kondo

Nigeria: American University of Nigeria library

American University of Nigeria libraryPhotograph: supplied
Open access and libraries centred around online learning and research are key in developing countries, says library directorAmed Demirhan

UK: Bodleian library, University of Oxford

Bodleian LibraryPhotograph: Bodleian Libraries, University of Oxford
We need to shape the skills of library staff to meet user needs while maintaining specialist knowledge, says interim Bodley's librarianRichard Ovenden

Australia: Queensland University of Technology library

Kelvin Grove LibraryPhotograph: Queensland University of Technology
With 97% of its research downloads from outside Australia, the library's open access expertise is invaluable, says library directorJudy Stokker

Singapore: Nanyang Technological University library

Lee Wee Nam libraryPhotograph: Nanyang Technological University
Finding information is not the problem, says university librarian Choy Fatt Cheong – libraries are now taking the lead on how to communicate it

Read Choy's interview

Brazil: Unicamp library system

Unicamp library Photograph: Unicamp
The academic library must go where the user is and provide access to the latest technologies, says library coordinator Luiz Atilio Vicentini

Canada: Harris Learning library, Nipissing University

Harris Learning LibraryPhotograph: Nipissing University
Traditional research methods are still in high demand, says director of library servicesNancy Black – and library staff continue to play a vital role

Italy: European University Institute library

European University Institute libraryPhotograph: European University Institute
Libraries small and large will benefit from collaboration to sustain learning and exchange knowledge, says deputy library directorTommaso Giordano
Are you a university librarian or staff member? Share your thoughts in the comments below and tweet us using the hashtag #libraryfutures
Help us document the university library of the 21st century by sharing your photos on GuardianWitness
This content is brought to you by Guardian Professional. To get more articles like this direct to your inbox, become a member of the Higher Education Network.

Hiç yorum yok:

Yorum Gönder

En Popüler Yayınlar

Son 1 Yılın Popüler Yayınları