The Senior Leadership Team (SLT) met recently to review the university’s Ten-Year Capital Plan (TYCP), which included the Manawatū Library Transformation Project. The SLT has made the very difficult decision to remove the Library Transformation Project budget from the TYCP and include it in the capital project ‘waitlist’ until such time that funding is available.
Despite a revised design with a slightly smaller footprint, the costs of the Manawatū Library transformation have increased due to unavoidable delays in the project and cost escalations. The university remains committed to transforming the library, and ensuring its centrality to the on-campus student experience is not diminished, while recognising the immense pressure currently on Massey’s capital budget.
There is still a very strong commitment to provide a modern and fit-for-purpose space for students and staff in all our campus libraries. Manawatū Library staff will continue to develop spaces to support the learning needs of students and to improve access to resources and services. Staff welcome feedback on about how the building can better provide a ‘a place to get things done’ where each student feels comfortable, welcome, and safe.