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Library renovation project designed to improve access to study and social space
Abertay University has transformed its Library foyer to serve as a new home for the Abertay Students’ Association, while also creating a more modern and flexible space for students to socialise and study.
The refurbishment has renovated the ground floor to serve as a dynamic hub aimed at providing both social and study areas for students, while also accommodating a range of multifunctional events throughout the academic year.
As part of the project, the Abertay Students’ Association has relocated into the heart of the library, providing better visibility and more opportunities for students to engage in their wide range of activities.
Features of the new space include a flexible amphitheatre-style events area capable of hosting talks, workshops, training sessions, meetings, game nights and film screenings.
The new space was officially opened by Joe FitzPatrick and Shona Robison, MSPs representing the city (Dundee City West Constituency and Dundee City East Constituency). Joe FitzPatrick is a former student of Abertay, graduating with a first-class honours degree in science in 1996.
Joe FitzPatrick MSP said:
Students at Abertay already benefit from a hugely positive experience on campus, with the university ranking highly in student satisfaction surveys. The new students’ association will build on that excellent record and help ensure Abertay continues to offer a positive environment for students.
Shona Robison MSP said:
Campus facilities like these are so important for students. They provide a space where students can achieve academically, but also enjoy leisure activities, helping students find the right balance between studying and downtime. These welcoming new facilities at Abertay will help to provide every student with the opportunity to reach their potential.
The new space features a dedicated 'pop-up' area for student clubs and societies and external organisations to showcase their activities and promote products, services and campaigns, providing a space for students and visitors to learn about various initiatives available to them.
Work has also been carried out to upgrade the lift, entrance and toilets, with coffee, vending and a microwave all added to a new kitchen area.
Dounia Allaiouti, Student President, said:
Our new space is amazing and it’s already having a really positive impact on our activities and for our students, who are able to engage with us far more easily than before. Having great spaces to come together is an essential part of building a student community and we’re really pleased to be placed right in the heart of the Abertay campus.
Elley Petrie, Chief Executive of Abertay Students’ Association added:
The Association and the University work together closely to make sure we are doing all we can to provide an excellent student experience, plenty of welfare support and access to great facilities. This new space will help us to build on that and will put the Association right at the centre of student life at Abertay.
The refurbishment has also upgraded the Support Enquiry Zone (SEZ), the University’s central hub for student support. SEZ addresses all student inquiries, directing them to relevant services such as counselling and mental health support, study skills, financial support, disabled student support and academic-related concerns.
A private waiting area has been created for students accessing SEZ, designed to provide privacy from the main entrance and foyer. This space features comfortable bench seating, soft stools, and a table, with sufficient room for wheelchair users.
The renovation was funded by reinvesting some of the proceeds from the sale of former student halls which were no longer required due to more modern student accommodation becoming available.
James Nicholson, Director of Student and Academic Services, said:
The University is committed to creating a dynamic and supportive learning environment for the diverse needs of our students. The refurbishment of the library ground floor is a significant step to enhance the student experience at Abertay. Bringing Abertay Students’ Association into the Library is a positive step to improve opportunities for student engagement. The upgraded SEZ area will help to increase awareness of the services and support available to students and make it easier for them to access the resources they need.
