Main Library Lighting Works – Summer 2026
This summer most of the lighting in the Main Library is being updated. We had expected that we would be able to keep the floors open whilst works were carried out, but it quickly became clear once the contractors began work that this would not be possible for safety reasons. As such:
Level 3 works have begun, and the floor has been closed off to users. Works should be completed and the floor re-opened by 28 July.
Level 4 will then close with works due to be completed by 18 August, assuming all runs to timetable.
If any users require access to books on these levels during the relevant time periods, library staff can collect these for you. Requests can be made through Library Search, collections will be made twice a day, Monday to Friday. If there’s a need to access books outside of these times (e.g. at weekends) it may be possible for staff to fetch on an ad hoc basis by requesting at the Help Desk.
If you were hoping to browse the shelves, we have a guide on how to do this virtually: https://libanswers.st-andrews.ac.uk/faq/260523 Relevant titles identified can then be requested as above.
Study space continues to be available on levels 1 and 2, and on 3 or 4 when the other level is closed. Although there is some minor noise disruption from drilling, this is in short bursts and the sound does not carry to all levels. For PG students working on dissertations or doing research, the postgraduate area on level 1 is unaffected by the works, as well as space being available in the Thomson Reading Room in Martyrs Kirk.
Our apologise for the inconvenience caused by this short-notice closure, and that we weren’t able to give advance warning. We continue to work closely with Estates and the contractors and if it is possible to open up access outside of the arrangements described above, we’ll update further.
As always, you can contact us [email protected] with any questions.