On Friday 4 September, a community gathering marked the opening of the new Library in The Forest. As part of the University’s city campus, the Library has been designed with welcoming and inclusive spaces that support student learning, wellbeing and success.
Spanning two levels, the Library offers a range of flexible study environments to meet diverse learning needs, including spaces for quiet focused study, academic collections, digital technologies, specialist resources and tailored support services. Items in print include high use publications focused on the disciplines in the building (business and humanities) and students can request any title in the collection statewide for delivery. These new spaces have been created to help students thrive academically, build confidence and feel connected throughout their university journey.
Strings of Sea Country: A Story Carried in Shells, exhibited in the new Library, respectfully showcases the cultural practice of shell stringing. Through its focus on intergenerational knowledge transmission and enduring cultural significance within the Tasmanian Aboriginal Community, the exhibition honours Elders and Knowledge Holders while creating opportunities for students to engage with culture, history and living knowledge systems.
Designed by Preston Lane and constructed by Hansen Yuncken using a local workforce and sustainable materials, the Library forms part of the University’s restoration of the heritage-listed building The Forest on Melville Street.
Sensory design principles have been incorporated throughout to create a calm, comfortable and supportive environment where students feel a sense of belonging. The inclusion of a dedicated Student Access Study Centre (SASC) further strengthens support for students with a disability and those living with mental health conditions, helping to ensure equitable access to learning opportunities.
University Librarian and Curatorial Director Caine Chennatt worked closely with the design team and Aboriginal Elders to bring the space to life.
“We wanted to create a place where every student feels supported to succeed, where curiosity and discovery are encouraged, and where connections to Country, culture and community enrich the learning experience,” Caine said.
The Library is open to students 7.00am – midnight, 7 days with community access available between 8.00am – 5.00pm on weekdays. Find out more and discover the services available at the University’s Library at The Forest.