“The new library doesn’t only look modern but feels like a space full of 
success stories waiting to happen”! This was a testimony from a student which was read out during the Official Opening of the newly refurbished Medicine and Health Sciences Library, at the Tygerberg Campus, on 22 May.
Originally furnished in 1974, the Medicine and Health Sciences Library was in need of a revamp. Planning for the new library of almost 3000 m2, began in 2013. In 2017/2018, a total refurbishment was undertaken. The refurbishment formed part of the SU Campus Renewal Plan. The new library is aligned with one of the themes of the University’s new Strategic Framework, namely, networked and collaborative teaching and learning.
Construction started in February 2017. Most of the library’s books and journals were placed in storage for a year. During this time, the library occupied a temporary space in the basement of the faculty. The temporary space allowed staff to continue providing a service although limited books and space were available to students.
The refurbished library now has much to offer its users in support of networked and collaborative teaching and learning. There are 68 Windows computers with up-to-date software on a high-speed network. The computers are dispersed throughout the library, with eight in the Lounge area. Medical and Health Sciences students also make use of their own devices and the library has therefore ensured adequate, seamless Wi-Fi connectivity.
The new state-of-the-art Digital Commons and E-classroom allows students a space that is conducive to academic learning, both in a group and as an individual. The 38 Windows computers and projector, are earmarked as a training facility where library staff can train students and staff in the use of the library and its resources.
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lso available are six study booths fitted with comfortable benches and electrical points for e-devices. Twenty-one individual study tables, towards the back of the library, offer quiet individual reflective learning spaces with comfortable seating. All are equipped with power docks.
The library has nine seminar rooms of various sizes, each fitted with appropriate equipment for use by groups, either for discussions, meetings, group learning or collaborative sessions. Appropriate equipment ranges from electrical points to screens and whiteboards, all of which promote student collaboration and discussion and enhance student engagement in learning.
The Research Commons is a dedicated space that actively supports research, and is exclusively for postgraduate students, researchers, academics and administrative staff.
The novel Video Conferencing Room is a specialised area with video conference facilities. It is available for use by researchers and specialised groups.
The yellowwood tree in the courtyard conceptualizes the philosophy of a library being symbolically and physically the heartbeat of a university. It symbolizes the seed of knowledge and creative thinking that is planted in the library, and precipitates growth of the campus community.
The Medicine and Health Sciences Library of the Library and Information Service, Stellenbosch University, is now positioned to contribute and serve modern health professionals to the benefit of the greater South African society.
Yusuf Ras
Editing: Bronwyn Bruton