Find your Library microclimate, roll on refurb

Hot, cold or just right in the Library? Here are some tips for finding your favourite Library environment, how to ask us for local adjustments and most importantly, news of University investment in the system.

Find your microclimate!

Grey desks with purple dividers and lamps beside windows and book shelvesDifferent people prefer different study areas and temperatures.

  • Dislike chills?Avoid sitting right under vents on the 5th Floor which alternately blow warm and cooler air.
  • Like it warm? Try open tables beside warm radiators on our 3rd Floor, north side (illustrated).
  • Like it bright and hot? If the sun is shining, sit on the south Pepper Lane side in the afternoon or the western Whiteknights House side late afternoon/early evening.
  • We recommend wearing layers to the Library so you can adjust to the day’s and each area’s conditions.

Request an adjustment!

  • Windows can be opened on the Library’s 1st to 4th Floors. Reach lower ones yourself or ask for help with high ones, either at a floor Information Desk Monday-Thursday 09:00-17:00 & Friday 10:00-17:00; or the Ground Floor at other times.
  • Heating and air conditioning is controlled remotely by University Estates and Facilities (E&F) according to heat sensor information. If you feel it is not working correctly, please use our new online heating & ventilation form to tell us exactly when and where you had a problem so we can pass it on.

Refurb opportunity

The University acknowledges our 50-year-old Library presents challenges to balancing energy efficiency against contemporary consumer demand. Its vast open spaces, surrounded by aging windows, are still heated with 196os panels plus an ambient air circulation system and radiators in the 1985 extension. A new but separate 5th Floor heat exchange system blows warm air when sensors register 18°C or cool at 24°C.

Forthcoming Library refurbishment will address heating and ventilation systems, window replacement, external cladding and roofing and should improve our environmental credentials by 40%.

Rachel Redrup, Library Marketing Co-ordinator
Robin Hunter, Library Facilities Manager