The McLaughlin Library is pleased to announce the completion of its new entrance. Facing onto Johnston Green and featuring eight doors, including two accessibility entrances, and a vestibule three times larger than the previous one, the new entrance was built to easily accommodate a greater volume of library visitors. 

Part of the renovation included the relocation of the Ask Us Desk and IT Help Desk in the new larger foyer, which will reduce congestion as users enter and exit the building especially during peak exam periods.

“We are so pleased that work has been completed on the new entrance in time for the fall semester,” says interim University librarian Amanda Etches. “Students and library users will be immediately impressed not only by the design and features but by how the new entrance helps with the flow of people throughout the first floor and study areas.” 

Additional features include a heated concrete pad at the entrance that will melt ice and snow during the winter months, reducing the need for salt and sand and serving as a trial for adoption of heated concrete elsewhere at U of G. The suspended concrete roof slab over the entrance is also the first of its kind on campus completed during a renovation project. 

New seating and gardens will soon be available between the library and Massey Hall for community members to meet and enjoy the fresh air during spring, summer and fall months. 

The new entrance is the library’s only public entrance. The former entrance located off Winegard Walk beside the library Starbucks is now an emergency exit only.