The Muriel Stott Building, located within the Main Library, has been closed for over two weeks to begin the initial phase of proposed redevelopment plans.
On February 24, the Muriel Stott Building and its courtyard in the Main Library closed for essential tree removal in preparation for further renovations this summer.
Contractors will be working on-site Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm.
The redevelopment plans aim to transform the space into a dedicated area for quiet, individual study. As part of the renovation, 36 reservable study spaces will be introduced, featuring adjustable lighting to accommodate different preferences.
The outdoor courtyard will also be redesigned to provide an additional workspace for both staff and students.
The project team is collaborating with the University’s environmental sustainability team to preserve as many existing trees as possible while also planting replacement trees elsewhere on campus.
These developments align with the University’s plan to plant 200 trees across campus in celebration of its bicentenary.
These library renovations are part of the University’s ‘Imagine2030‘ initiative to “reimagine” its library. ‘Imagine2030’ is part of the broader ‘Manchester 2035’ 10-year strategy. One of the project’s goals is to develop “a comprehensive library estate strategy”.
The strategy further outlines the goal to “either refurbish or rebuild the Main Library”.
The University has warned of potential noise disruption during this period and advises students to make use of alternative spaces within the Main Library and across other library locations.
