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Fisher building works

The Library is getting some important and long-awaited upgrades

Since 28 November 2022 three key projects have been underway in the Fisher Library two of which are now complete:

  • Adding 2 All gender bathrooms and 1 accessible all gender bathroom, on level 1 (complete).
  • Upgrading the heating, ventilation and air conditioning and fire systems (complete).
  • Refurbishing and re-opening the Fisher rooftop terrace (underway).

These important upgrades will improve the University experience for everyone, and maintain our library as a world-class institution.


To help you navigate the upcoming changes at Fisher Library, we will post updates and important notices, to keep you informed. This includes ensuring any disruptions at Fisher Library are communicated effectively, and alternative arrangements made where and when required.



Impacts to Library services and spaces


As the majority of works are now complete, clients will experience very few impacts, if any, during their visits to the Fisher Library.

Some noise may be audible throughout the building during installation of footings for new furnishings and the balustrade for the Fisher rooftop terrace upgrade.

Between April and September 2023, some closures to Barff Rd will still be required and access to the law carpark will be available via City Rd when road closures are in place.


Last updated: April 2023

New all gender and accessible bathrooms (level 1)


Construction completed.

We are excited to announce the additional of 2 new all gender bathrooms and a larger accessible all gender bathroom, located on the level 1 (next to the lifts).



Last updated: April 2023

Heating, ventilation and airconditioning/ fire upgrades (level 1, 2 and 9)


Construction completed.


The Library is dedicated to the preservation of its collections, ensuring its facilities are suitably equipped to handle rare and fragile items in a controlled environment.

To ensure ongoing protection, 3 large new air handling units and a dry gaseous fire extinguishing system have been installed and waterproofing has been applied in the external moat around Level 1.

These upgrade will improve humidity and temperature control far into the future for Rare Books and Special Collections (RBSC) as well as University Archives, and Chau Chak Wing Museum collections stored in Fisher Library.

Levels 1 and 9, the walkway between Fisher and Law libraries, and the Rare Books and Special Collections reading room have all been reopened to clients.




Last updated: April 2023

Fisher rooftop terrace upgrade (level 5)


Construction start date: 28 November 2022 (approx.)

Construction completion date: Late 2023 (approx.)


After more than 30 years, the Library will once again reopen the rooftop terrace, as part of the upcoming upgrades to Fisher Library. The refurbished rooftop terrace, which looks out to an incredible vista of both the campus and the cityscape, is intended to provide an inspirational communal space for our library community. The upgrades will also ensure the rooftop space meets safety regulations, while still maintaining the building’s unique heritage architecture.


Working hours and noisy works

Work is planned to be carried out within normal working hours: 7am – 3pm

Some noise may be audible throughout the building during installation of footings for new furnishings and the balustrade for the Fisher rooftop terrace upgrade.


Last updated: August 2023

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