The Hive, Worcester

Judith Keene

University of Worcester

Some basic facts about the Hive…

• Partnership project between the University of Worcester and Worcestershire County Council

• Jointly managed by UW and WCC• PFI Funded• Integrated Library, WCC Archives and

Archaeology Service, plus Worcestershire Hub

• 10000 m2 public space

• Open 8.30am – 10.00pm• 800 study spaces incl. 250 PCs• 250,000 books• Library shelving: 7274 linear metres• 12 miles documented archives• 23,000 records of archaeology sites and historic

buildings

FM

• Security• Caretaking• Catering• Cleaning• Library Self service equipment

Integration

• Access• Study space• Stock• Customer service

Technology

• Integrated user records – single library card• Merged library catalogues (Archives to follow)• All PCs available to any user (booking system

implemented)• Single wireless network plus Eduroam• Single print / copy solution• Combined IT regulations• Site licence for disability software• Specialist software at other university sites

• Staff remained with the existing employer

• Library Services Manager and Business Services

Manager – joint appointments

• Strategic leadership across service areas

Staff and Services

• BREEAM Outstanding 86.4 %• Naturally ventilated building (except archive)• Thermal mass of building to mediate temperature

fluctuations• Cooling from prevailing winds passing over landscaping• River water cooling • 700kW Biomass boiler (locally sourced woodchips)• 30% recycled content in construction• Locally sourced materials where possible

Sustainability

How are we doing?

• Over 45 awards – Including Guardian University Award – contribution to the

local community

– Times Higher Leadership & Management Award – Outstanding library team

– RIBA National and Regional Awards

– Best Sustainability in a Project – RIBA West Midlands, Public Private Partnership Awards

Some of the benefits – theory …

• New communities of users • Single Gateway to County heritage and history, and

university resources • High quality resource to attract students and high

calibre academic staff• New and innovative learning opportunities• Opportunities for volunteering, work experience,

independent studies, research• Diversity and inclusion • Staff development opportunities

….and practice

• 1434700 visits• 24600 new public borrowers• (average 45 per day – previously 10)• 2750 public issues per month – was 900• 650 unique PC users per month – was 150• 1100 Archives researchers tickets issued

…and practice (2)

Work with schools and colleges – transition activity Hive mentor team Drama club, film society…. Professoriate lecture series Dementia ambassadors Business engagement

Thank you

J.keene@worc.ac.uk