The Cyberthèque represents the transition of a conventional library into a library adapted to new information technologies. The renovation of 1500 m2 of library space created a space capable of accommodating 250 students, each engaged in their own way: working on one of the 125 workstations, meeting in one of many group study spaces with wireless access or relaxing with their laptop in the lounge.
Located in the Redpath Library Building, the experiential Cyberthèque blends a diverse range of studying and learning spaces for groups and individuals, various technology and multi-media equipment, and timely assistance in accessing and using information.
Cyberthèque includes four glazed study pods for up to ten students, group study spaces organised around banquettes, quiet tables with or without computers for individual study, two e-classrooms for information skills classes, an assignment production area, a central information point dubbed the “genius bar”, and casual study areas dotted with bright, comfortable lounges. All of these spaces are equipped with projection screens and access to the network to facilitate group work. The atmosphere is characterized by a fluid, functional distribution of spaces, coupled with subtle effects of colour, transparency and lighting. Sustainable design measures were also essential in developing the Cyberthèque,
This unique facility was designed by ékm architecture together with Douglas Birkenshaw, and his team at Bregmann + Hamann from Toronto. The project was realised in a short time span and ékm worked on all scales of the project, solving design issues and construction details at the same time.
For the McGill Library, the Cyberthèque offers fresh opportunities to build on the essential teaching, learning and research support it provides for faculty and students at the university. The project is very popular with staff and students.
© photos > Marc Cramer