The Learning Resource Centre at Hymers College, Hull, designed by Jefferson Sheard in 2015, has been named joint winner in the prestigious School Library Association Inspiration Awards in an awards ceremony in central London on 2nd October.
Librarian's Desk at the Hymers LRC
The state-of-the-art building, which was directed by the Practice’s Regional Director, Clare Ailward, is the result of a design competition to respect and protect the heritage of the prestigious Grade II Listed College whilst also providing a flexible, adaptable and technology-rich learning environment. The £3m development incorporates 1,500m² of open plan learning, a café and multi-function hall within the much loved ‘Old Gymnasium’, small group/ meeting rooms, conference room, IT suites, and offices.
The SLA Judges said – "Hymers College have taken Hull’s City of Culture vision and designed a beautiful building to welcome their wider community into a multi-use hub offering 21st century library facilities in an inspiring design putting the role of the Library and Librarian at the heart of teaching and learning"
The LRC is a joint winner of the prize, alongside American School of Madrid and Headington School, Oxon.
The award-winning LRC is a recent addition to Jefferson Sheard’s expansive Education portfolio and one of a number of schemes delivered in the region. The Practice recently completed the community-focussed operational fire stations at Brough and Hull Central, and, the Hymers College Music Building, which was completed in 2014.