FoAD unveils refurbished library and postgrad lab

Front Row, L-R: Dr Maleshoane Rapeane-Mathonsi, Prof Sibusiso Moyo, Prof Debbie Lutge. Back Row, L-R: Prof Brain Pearce, Dr René Smith, Lucille Webster and Siza Radebe. 


The Faculty of Arts and Design (FoAD) recently unveiled its newly renovated library basement area and postgraduate laboratory, which is part of the project aimed at creating conducive and student friendly spaces for learning. 

The project which was spearheaded by DUT’s Library Services and FoAD stems from one of the strategic focus areas (SFA) of the Durban University of Technology’s strategic plan which is building sustainable student communities of living and learning.

Speaking about the project, Siza Radebe, Manager: Site Libraries, said the launch was part of a larger project that is currently running across all DUT libraries.

“The difference with this project is that it is a collaborative effort with the Faculty of Arts and Design. The space in the basement of the library has been transformed into vibrant study areas and group discussion rooms. Dr René Smith and Dr Maleshoane Rapeane-Mathonsi together with the library staff at City Campus provided input to Megan Parker who coordinated the whole project,” said Radebe.

Giving an overview of the project, Director of the Library Services, Lucille Webster said, the journey to repurpose all libraries across all campuses started in 2013/2014, and the aim is to complete this across all six campuses by January 2018.

Interior Design Masters’ student, Megan Parker whose work became the benchmark for the project added that she was very happy for many reasons because nothing was more rewarding then seeing her design come to life.

FoAD’S Executive Dean Dr René Smith said that she was honoured to have been part of the project. “We came across the work of Megan Parker which was actually saying we love our library but it is not inviting to us. Her research showed students do want spaces where they can talk and work, they also need a quiet space as well as a space to engage. We are only showing you (DUT staff and students) the beginning of a bigger project of repurposing and designing our library space,” she said excitedly.

Students and staff are encouraged to come along to view and make use of the spaces which is now open from 7.30am to 6pm, Monday to Fridays.



-WAHEEDA PETERS AND MONGI KHANYILE

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