The Library and Archives Master Plan (LAMP) steering committee met recently with their planning partners and a representative of the Campus Master Plan (CMP) team for a visioning session around the future development of the library and archives.

The committee members, who include librarians, staff, faculty and students, began to develop concepts for how Queen’s library and archive spaces and services could develop in both the short and long terms.

“The discussion was lively as we talked about the kinds of spaces our users want,” says Martha Whitehead, University Librarian. “Our planning consultants synthesized what we learned so far through research and stakeholder consultations, and they stimulated ideas for new kinds of space configurations. It was a very productive session.”

The LAMP project, which is closely integrated with the CMP, aims to develop a set of recommendations for guiding the development of library and archives facilities over the next two decades. The process will inform how the library can best act as a hub of learning, research and collaboration, as well as uphold the principles of accessibility, diversity and sustainability in its facilities, collections and programming.

Mira Dineen, Alma Mater Society Vice-President (University Affairs) and a student representative on the LAMP steering group, believes that the LAMP project is an excellent opportunity to enhance the library’s existing facilities.

“The way students access information and how they use the library has changed dramatically over the past 20 years,” says Ms Dineen. “We need to think about the kinds of flexible spaces and new technologies and services that students will require as the library develops over the next 20 years. For many of them, the library is a defining space of their university experience. ”

The LAMP project has engaged people across the university in a series of focus groups since last Fall, and it is not too late to participate. Everyone is encouraged to visit the LAMP website and submit their thoughts. The perspectives submitted will inform the group’s work over the coming months.