Buildings and Grounds Division

BURF Project- Learning space in library

Purpose

The reconfiguration and extension to the Library is expected to add approx. 1,000 sq.m. to the southern, Agora end of the existing facility.  It is intended to centralise ‘learning support services’, provide several hundred study seats and incorporate a learning ‘commons’ which can be opened for extended hours beyond the normal opening hours for the library, possibly incorporating a 24 hour facility.

Reason for the project

LaTrobe is capitalising on the recent Better Universities Renewal Funding (BURF] initiative to improve campus infrastructure in line with the development of a Master Plan for the University’s campuses and the Federal Government’s criteria.  This funding is aimed directly at enhancing student learning and associated services.  LaTrobe has also ‘topped up’ the allocation of Federal funds for this project with its own capital funding.

Funding

In essence on a shared basis from both Federal allocations (BURF @ 53%) and LaTrobe Funds (47%).

Work Details

The concept and desired outcome is just now being determined in consultation with Library staff and associated interests within the vicinity of the Library precinct, however there will be some on site action towards mid 2009 when preparatory works are likely to ready the Library for the construction which will follow.  It is estimated at this stage that approx. 10 km of library bookshelves will need to be ‘cleared’ as part of this preparation.  A temporary construction wall will be built adjacent to the central stair to minimize penetration of noise and other builder's intrusions during this disruptive phase of growth.  The other significant issue on a temporary basis will be the relocation of an entrance from the existing level 2, to the east side of level 1.  This is to minimise interference with Library patrons and to establish a construction zone within which these activities can be more safely carried out.

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Construction Period

This will likely consist of several stages:

1. a pre-construction phase where some site establishment and demolition works can be commenced so that the actual new construction activities can be streamlined and concentrated.
2. construction of the new build
3. "fit out" ~ once the building works are completed the interior spaces can be made ready for the new library activities as mentioned above. 

All works are to be completed by June 2011.

Project Manager

Much of the extended ‘team’ of internal and external personnel for this project is still being formed. Over the next few months key costings and architectural design details will be developed.  However it is expected that through the Buildings & Grounds administration, the University requirements and design issues will be identified and addressed by the first quarter of 2009 when most “key players” for this project will be “on board”.

Wesley Parker
Project Manager
Buildings and Grounds

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