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Hargrave-Andrew Library shows its new face

15 February 2006

The Hargrave-Andrew Library at the Clayton campus officially opened this week following a major refurbishment in 2005.

From left: Monash University Museum of Art Artistic Director Mr Max Delany, Ms Cathrine Harboe-Ree and Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Stephen Parker.

It is the first of Monash University Library's eight branches to be upgraded.

University Librarian Ms Cathrine Harboe-Ree said the official opening was a milestone in its efforts to respond to changing teaching and learning styles.

"We have made the most of contemporary design and architecture, supported by the latest technology, to create a progressive information resources environment which engages both students and academics and enriches the learning and research journey," Ms Harboe-Ree said.

"This refurbishment is about far more that just a functional, new-look building. It is the blueprint for the upgrading of our eight library branches and a statement of the Monash University Library's commitment to the university's strategic goals."

As part of the refurbishment, the main entrance was relocated next to the Hargrave cafe and courtyard, the number of computer workstations more than doubled to 154, and a variety of seats and desks installed to accommodate different study styles. Access and facilities for those with disabilities have also been improved.

Hargrave-Andrew Library Manager Mr Robert Thomas said the result was extremely pleasing.

"This is a great improvement in accommodation and facilities for all our users," Mr Thomas said. "The library is more attractive, more open and much easier to navigate, and lends itself to both individual and collaborative study modes.

"The library is an important base for students and researchers. Before the refurbishment commenced, we were receiving more than half a million visits each year, and with the improved facilities now available, we expect the door count to increase even further."

Mr Thomas said library staff were delighted Australian art works from the Monash University Collection had gone on display at the library.

The most prominent work is John Perceval's ‘Homage to Lawrence Hargrave' 1961--62, installed on the wall in the entranceway.

The ceramic work, commissioned by the university as a signature piece of the original library in 1961, was cleaned and restored before being remounted during the refurbishment.

The Hargrave-Andrew Library, named after inventor and aviation pioneer Lawrence Hargrave and founding Faculty of Medicine Dean Professor Rod Andrew, opened in December 1962.

Staff and students from the faculties of Science, Engineering, Information Technology and Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences use the facility.

For more information, visit the library's website.