August 23, 2007
Student Fee Brings Enhanced Library Hours
Thanks to the recent passage of the Library Fee, students will be able to spend more time in the library than ever before. Effective August 23, 2007, the Undergraduate and Grainger Engineering Libraries will offer extended hours.
The Undergraduate Library will be open:
Monday-Thursday: 8am-3am
Friday: 8am-10pm
Saturday: 10am-10pm
Sunday: 10am-3am
In addition, the Undergraduate Library will offer overnight “study hall” hours:
Monday-Friday: 3am-8am.
The Grainger Engineering Library will be open:
Monday-Thursday: 24 hours (always open)
Friday: 12am-9pm
Saturday: 10am-9pm
Sunday: 10am-Midnight
Surveys of undergraduate and graduate students conducted at Illinois in 2004 and 2005 demonstrated great demand for increased hours in major campus libraries, including the Undergraduate Library and the Grainger Engineering Library. Students, along with other Library users, also “voted with their feet” by visiting physical libraries in tremendous numbers. In 2006-2007, combined in-person visits to the Undergraduate Library and Grainger Engineering Library totaled almost 1.5 million. These users utilized the world-class collections, attended workshops and classes, consulted with librarians, and took advantage of new and enhanced Library services. These numbers confirm that the new generation of students continues to place great value on the library as place—to study, conduct research, relax, and interact with others.
Approved by the Board of Trustees in March 2007, the Library fee supports a number of initiatives, including but not limited to: developing electronic media and digitization; increasing library hours; improving information technology services; creating and enhancing tools for online learning and research; and increasing the positions focused on direct support of student learning and services. The extension of hours in both the Undergraduate and Grainger Engineering Libraries demonstrates the Library’s commitment to meeting the needs of current students.
Thanks to all our students!
