The Library and Archives Master Plan (LAMP) project is now at the stage of developing options based on several key ideas.

First, a set of guiding principles was developed following stakeholder input and a careful examination of existing facilities and background information.  These principles are presented in a display currently in Stauffer Library, and online.

Second, several programmatic elements and the relationships between them were established for all library and archives facilities:  services, collections and learning/study.  Collections (physical and virtual) remain at the core of the library and the archives, surrounded by a variety of services, and those services are intertwined with spaces for learning and research.

Third, it was established that the existing facility for the Archives, Kathleen Ryan Hall, is inadequate for archival collections and services and a new location must be found.  Synergies with special collections argue for its relocation to Douglas Library where Jordan Library is housed.

With all this in mind, the LAMP Steering Group and the planning team led by CS&P Architects have been considering the suggestions heard in the stakeholder consultations regarding services and spaces for learning and research, concentrating first on Douglas Library and Stauffer Library.  These two signature buildings at the intersection of University and Union are seen as key academic spaces forming a ‘library town square.’  Revisions to their interior plans and to the public realm that connects them are being suggested to enhance both the student learning experience and research services.

A set of drawings for Stauffer and Douglas is available online and in Stauffer Library to generate feedback and ideas. These are broad stroke representations of space for services, collections and learning/study.  More detailed layouts would be established for specific projects as they proceed in the months and years following completion of the master plan.  In April and May, planning will focus on the other libraries and the system as a whole.  The master plan is scheduled for completion in June.

An information session and Q&A on the LAMP project will be held on Friday, April 26^th from 11:00-11:45 a.m. in Robert Sutherland Hall Rm.202.  All are welcome.

Today’s Plan Your Campus: Campus Master Plan Information Exchange in the ARC was a great opportunity for conversations about planning for the Library and the Archives of the future.  See the LAMP posters here.

Update: also check out the post on draft emerging concepts for Stauffer and Douglas, here.

The LAMP Steering Committee engaged with the CS&P planning team today in a workshop focused on re-imagining Stauffer Library and Douglas Library.  The ideas build on the student learning experience theme of the Queen’s Learning Commons in Stauffer Library, and a new focus on archives and special collections in Douglas Library.  There was much enthusiasm and feedback, and the CS&P team will be working on another set of drawings to solicit general feedback on these ideas in April.