This autumn, Libraries are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the university’s arts and social sciences library, Hallward.

Opened in August 1973, replacing the original University Library in the Trent Building, Hallward Library has always been a key location for study, research, work and being part of the university community.

Over the last 50 years a great deal has changed in the library to reflect the changing needs of students, including the introduction of more flexible and interactive spaces including a screening room, student kitchen and a SafePod for researchers, but the library’s distinctive Brutalist exterior and wood panelled interior remain.

Exhibition

To mark the occasion, exhibition boards are on display in Hallward Library which explore the history of the library with photographs from the university archives.

The exhibition can be found on Level 2 (entrance level) of the library near the Reference section. Don’t forget to leave a comment in the visitor book before you leave!

If you prefer to explore the history of the library digitally, Manuscripts and Special Collections have been sharing a series of blog posts about the history of the library.

The fascinating series looks at the development of the building from idea to official opening and beyond, featuring photographs and other items from the university’s archival collections.

• Part 1: Need for the library
• Part 2: Designing the library
• Part 3: Building the library
• Part 4: Legacy of the library

Tote bags and notebooks

The Brutalist design of the library has been commemorated in tote bags and notebooks. For anyone who missed being able to get a bag at the Welcome Fairs, Libraries are running a prize draw in which 20 lucky winners will be chosen at random to receive a tote bag and notebook set.

For your chance to win, answer the simple question before Sunday 19 November 2023. Terms and conditions apply.

If you aren’t chosen at random in the prize draw, keep an eye out on the UoN Libraries social media channels for details of where and when more bags will be available.