Douglas College unveils vibrant $4M library at New Westminster Campus

Douglas College has officially opened the doors to its newly renovated, connected and vibrant $4 million library at the New Westminster Campus. The space features new lighting and acoustics, modernized flooring and furniture, integrated IT services, enhanced power, network and electrical systems, and increased access to natural light.

The 10-month renovation project launched with a total of $4 million in funding, a combination of the College’s capital reserve and routine capital funding from the Province of British Columbia.

“Douglas College continues to invest in its students’ educational experience,” says Dr. Kathy Denton, Douglas College President and CEO. “The renovations to the New Westminster Campus library provide the campus community with a modern space for research and collaboration.”

There will be a plaque recognizing the library as the Bill Hughes Family Library, after the popular radio show host and his family, who have generously supported Douglas College over the years.

The library renovation began with plans for routine maintenance, but was leveraged into a refresh of the entire space to meet the evolving needs of the student body.

“Part of our renovation plan was to better zone our spaces so our users can easily find an area that best suits their needs, whether it’s silent, quiet, collaborative, individual or group space,” says Trish Rosseel, Director, Learning Resources and Records Management. “We also placed seating in areas with more natural lighting, and incorporated furnishings that create a more comfortable and welcoming learning environment for our students.”

The new library’s sleek design is reflective of the Douglas brand and has converted the library into a contemporary learning space that will contribute to the success of Douglas students. 

Douglas College is the largest degree-granting college in B.C., combining the academic foundations of a university and the employer-ready skills of a college to provide the most relevant and inspiring undergraduate experience in British Columbia.