Randwyck Library with a vision for the future
The official reopening of Randwyck Library on Monday 2 September, highlighted its upgraded features and its significance to the Maastricht University (UM) community. Since 1991, the library has been a vital resource for the Randwyck campus, providing a space where the academic community can access, create, and share scientific knowledge. It also emphasises on creating a calm, inclusive, and inspiring atmosphere.
Reopening event
On 2 September, Randwyck Library celebrated its reopening with a ceremony, aligning with the start of the new academic year. The event featured a symbolic film showcasing the library’s transformation, along with speeches from Pamela Habibovic, the Rector Magnificus of Maastricht University and Claudia van Oppen, Director of Maastricht University Library. Guests were then taken on guided tours to experience the newly renovated library themselves. The modern design and flexible spaces received high praise from visitors, who noted that the library is well-equipped for the future.
Innovative features
Among the standout features of the renovation are the Digital Labs, including the Vesalius Room with its anatomy models and Vesalius3D, as well as a DIY Podcast Studio. These new spaces are designed to support creative and scientific knowledge sharing. Additionally, the Well-being & Inspiration Area offers resources for career inspiration in collaboration with Brightlands, VR education support, and well-being initiatives. The theme "A river of knowledge" reflects the dynamic and evolving nature of information. The renovation of Randwyck Library has transformed it into a modern academic and medical library facility that improves the availability, accessibility, and discovery of scientific information. It supports the entire UM community and serves as the medical library for MUMC+ and AVM.
Inspiring partner
Furthermore, the library facilitates collaborations with external partners to offer inspiring experiences for visitors. Currently, the Information Lounge features an exhibition in partnership with Special Collections and MUMC+. The library is eager to expand collaborations within the UM community and welcomes suggestions for future exhibitions.
Randwyck Library represents the future of libraries with its focus on innovation and flexibility. It offers services and support tailored to users' needs, such as workshops on information, digital, and data literacy. The library is committed to continuously adapting to user needs and will actively assess user experiences. It will evolve accordingly to meet the future demands of the academic community, ensuring its continued support in the years ahead.
Photography: Jonathan Vos
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