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Douglas College announces $4 million library renovation project

The library at Douglas College’s New Westminster campus is about to get a $4 million facelift.
douglas library
An artist’s rendering shows what the help desk will look like once the renovations to the existing library at Douglas College’s New Westminster campus are complete.

The library at Douglas College’s New Westminster campus is about to get a $4 million facelift.

The renovation project will see the existing library upgraded to include new collaboration spaces and quiet study and group project areas, according to a press release.

The renovations will also include upgrades to the library’s fire sprinklers and air conditioning system and new LED lighting.

“Douglas College is continuously exploring ways to make our students’ experience more productive and engaging,” said Douglas president and CEO Kathy Denton. “The new space will be brighter and will integrate with today’s latest technology.”

The Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training has provided $2.35 million to the project, with the remaining $1.65 million being covered by Douglas College’s capital reserve, according to the release.

“Students need to spark their imaginations, so they’re inspired to discover and excel, and that’s why we’re investing in libraries with the latest tech and design,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training, in the release. “Libraries are places students come to re-energize and fuel their minds, so we want these learning spaces to be as supportive as possible. It’s all about making life better for students so every student can reach their full potential.”

The bulk of the work will be complete during the summer semester to “reduce the impact to students,” according to the college.

The project is expected to be complete in the fall with the library reopening sometime during the first semester. In the meantime, services provided by the library and learning centre will be relocated within the New Westminster campus and Anvil Office Tower.