University of York Library: A History of Growth and Evolution
The University of York Library serves as the intellectual heart of the campus, evolving over several decades from a single building into a comprehensive complex. Since its inception, the library has expanded its physical footprint and updated its policies to better serve the academic community, blending architectural ambition with a commitment to accessibility.
The Foundations: The Bowes Morrell Library
The University of York opened its doors in 1963, followed shortly by the opening of the main campus library in 1965. This original structure was the result of a collaboration between architects Robert Matthew, Johnson-Marshall and Partners, and was constructed by Shepherd Construction.
The building was named in honor of John Bowes Morrell, a former Lord Mayor of York and a passionate advocate for the establishment of a university within the city. Throughout the 1990s, the facility was frequently referred to as the Bowes Morrell Library.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Expansion and Architectural Statements
As the university grew, so did the need for specialized research spaces. In 2003, the Raymond Burton Library was constructed alongside the original Morrell building. Designed by Leach Rhodes Walker architects, this facility was specifically created to house a Humanities Research library.
Beyond its functional purpose, the Raymond Burton Library was designed to make a bold visual statement, utilizing its elevated position on the campus to stand out. The building is named after Raymond Montague Burton, a Leeds businessman and philanthropist who provided long-term support for the library.
Modernization and the Fairhurst Addition
In 2012, the library underwent a significant £20 million refurbishment. This project expanded the library's footprint by adding a new building adjacent to the Morrell section. This new space was named after Harry Fairhurst, the first appointed University Librarian.
The refurbished and expanded facility was officially reopened in February 2012 by the novelist and university alumnus Anthony Horowitz.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Established: Main library opened in 1965.
- Key Buildings: Bowes Morrell, Raymond Burton, and the Harry Fairhurst addition.
- Major Investment: A £20 million refurbishment was completed in 2012.
- Policy Shift: All late return fines were permanently removed in 2022.
- Notable Figures: Named after supporters John Bowes Morrell and Raymond Montague Burton, and first librarian Harry Fairhurst.
| Year | Event/Addition | Key Figure/Architect |
|---|---|---|
| 1965 | Main campus library opens | Robert Matthew, Johnson-Marshall and Partners |
| 2003 | Raymond Burton Library opens | Leach Rhodes Walker architects |
| 2012 | £20m refurbishment and Fairhurst addition | Anthony Horowitz (Reopened) |
| 2022 | Permanent removal of late fines | University Administration |
Recent Events and Policy Changes
The library has also become a place of lighthearted community interaction. In 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, students and the library's official Twitter account shared photos of robins that had flown into the building through open windows. The library humorously noted that the birds had effectively received their own library cards.
More substantively, the library evolved its lending policies in 2022. Following the success of a temporary measure introduced during the pandemic, the library decided to permanently remove all fines for the late return of books to improve accessibility for all users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the library named after?
The original building was named after John Bowes Morrell, a former Lord Mayor of York. Other sections are named after philanthropist Raymond Montague Burton and the first University Librarian, Harry Fairhurst.
When did the library undergo its major refurbishment?
A major £20 million refurbishment was completed in 2012, which included the addition of a new building adjacent to the Morrell section.
Does the University of York Library charge late fees?
No. As of 2022, the library permanently removed all fines for the late return of books.
What is the purpose of the Raymond Burton Library?
The Raymond Burton Library was designed specifically as a home for a Humanities Research library and serves as a visual landmark on the campus.
Who officially reopened the library in 2012?
The refurbished and expanded library was officially reopened in February 2012 by novelist and alumnus Anthony Horowitz.