Refurbishment works in Senate House Library

Senate House Library is undertaking improvement works to enhance the comfort and functionality of our facilities. Based on feedback from our annual user survey, we are addressing two key areas for renovation over the coming month. 

To this end, two sets of works are currently being undertaken to address longstanding issues.

Firstly, the old single-panel secondary glazing on the sixth floor is being removed and replaced with sash-style windows and hinged doors. This will be beneficial in terms of health and safety (no longer having to physically remove large glass panels in order to open windows); user comfort (being able to easily adjust ventilation); and the environment (better thermal insulation of the building).

All the new glazing is bespoke to each location and has been measured and fabricated before fitting. 

Secondly, work is taking place in the men’s and women’s toilets on the fourth floor. Hand-driers are being installed and sinks and taps replaced. The work will mean the temporary closure of these facilities but, as with the glazing work, we hope that this temporary disruption is worth the longer-term benefit. 

It is anticipated that the works will be completed by early December, with the contractors working between 8am to 3pm each day.