Nestled at the heart of UWA’s Crawley campus, the Reid Library has long stood as a symbol of learning and collaboration, with more than one million visits a year.

Since its doors first opened in 1964, the library has been an in-demand hub for many generations of students, offering an array of learning spaces that have seen countless study sessions, group meetings and quiet moments of reflection.

Now, six decades later, level one of UWA’s most student-active space is at the tail end of a significant transformation, setting the stage for a new chapter and the next generation of learners.

“The Reid Library has always been a central part of the UWA experience however, with the exception of a significant renovation of the ground floor in 2016, it’s had minimal upgrades in its lifetime,” says University Librarian Scott Nicholls. 

“The current project has been about honouring the library’s heritage while reimagining its future.”

The ambitious refurbishment has been a major undertaking, with the project team working to create a contemporary, inclusive and technologically advanced space to support the diverse needs of UWA’s students, staff, researchers and visitors.

“We’ve worked closely with Hassell, a leading design firm, and respected Noongar elder Dr Richard Walley, to make sure the revamp reflected not just modern design principles, but also the cultural heritage of the Whadjuk Noongar people,” Mr Nicholls says.

“The themes of pathways and connections are central, echoing the diverse spaces and experiences that make UWA so unique. The primary path is ‘Reid Laneway’ which will act as an orientation point to connect all of the different areas.

“There are clear views out of the windows and lots of beautiful natural light. The connection to Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River) is integrated into the finishes with a series of incredible, large, circular carpet patterns and lights symbolising water droplets, which grow in size as they move towards the river.”

Level one now includes an array of new facilities catering to different study preferences and requirements – from 430 student seats for small group and individual study, to sensory rooms that support neurodiversity, and a parents’ study room for students and staff with children.

A student wellbeing lounge, with a committed space for The Living Room, and a home for the combined academic skills and library student drop-in service are key features.

“A lot of thought has gone into the Bilya Biddi quiet study area which features not only a reading wall housing the library’s Australian literature collection but also a mirrored ceiling, creating an illusion of a two-storey wall of books,” Mr Nicholls explains.

The project wasn’t just about aesthetics, but functionality and sustainability as well. By upgrading ageing plant facilities, equipment, and building fittings, the plan is to reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy efficiency, aligning with UWA’s broader commitment to sustainability. 

“As the largest and oldest library on campus, Reid holds a special place in the hearts of UWA students, staff, and alumni,” says Director University Transformation and Improvement Jill Benn, who was UWA’s University librarian for more than a decade. “We’re excited to see how these new spaces will bring people together and foster a sense of belonging at UWA.”