Case Study: Implementation of Library Eco Mode for Staggered Evening Closures

Background

The University Library occupancy data showed high usage during peak times but very low foot traffic during quieter, late-night periods. Despite being open 8am to midnight, only a fraction of the library’s capacity was being utilised during off-peak hours. Additionally, there were growing environmental concerns about the energy usage and carbon footprint associated with keeping the entire building operational late into the night. These observations led to the trial and introduction of a more sustainable approach - Library Eco Mode.

Objective

The primary objective of Library Eco Mode is to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact by closing unused sections of the library during low-occupancy hours only. The initiative aligns with the university’s broader carbon reduction goals and promotes smarter, more efficient use of space. At the same time, it ensures that essential services remain accessible to students and staff.

Key Drivers for Change

Energy Efficiency

By closing down parts of the library during quieter times, energy savings can be realised, implementing changes through the Building Management System (BMS), the system used to centrally control the building heating and cooling. Motion sensor lighting and LED upgrades had already been implemented in some areas (as well as staff continuing to manually switch lights off), and this new mode takes the initiative a step further.

Occupancy Levels

Patterns of library usage revealed that most students utilised the library during peak hours. Outside of these periods, especially late at night, the library was significantly underused. The data substantiated reducing the library's open footprint during these off-peak times.

Student Behaviour and COVID-19

Changes in student habits post-pandemic, as well as the effects of semesterisation, have resulted in fluctuating peaks and troughs in library attendance. Data revealed that in-person usage had been changeable since the pandemic, allowing room for adaptation.

Sustainability Agenda

Reducing the environmental footprint by using energy intelligently and ensuring the library remained accessible while supporting the university’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions was a critical priority.

Implementation: Summer Trial and Extended Trial Rollout

A short term trial period for Library Eco Mode was introduced over the summer, focusing on adapting staff behaviour and operational adjustments. This trial allowed staff to familiarise themselves with managing the staggered closure system, while ensuring no significant disruption to student services. The direct impact on the majority of students by this trial was minimal given the time of year however there were still some library users affected.

The official rollout of the extended trial of Library Eco Mode is scheduled for Consolidation Week in Semester 1, week commencing Monday 28 October. A staggered closure approach will see Burton closing at 9.30pm, Fairhurst closing at 10pm, and Morrell closing at midnight. The summer trial provided positive insights into how students adapted to the new setup, with many naturally gravitating toward the Morrell earlier in the day before the late-night closures were actioned.

Services and Accessibility

By selecting appropriate times for building closures key services such as the Creativity Lab and YorCreate can still be made available into the evening while balancing changes to the buildings which still impact on energy savings. The vast majority of the book stock is in Morrell which stays open until midnight. Notably, during Common Assessment Periods, Eco Mode will be suspended, and the entire library will be open 24/7 to meet the heightened demand.

Eco mode will remain under review to ensure the library access arrangements continue to meet the needs of both students and staff. User feedback will be an essential part of this evolving process.

Benefits and Future Outlook

The BMS will play a significant role in managing energy consumption across heating and cooling. The reduction of the building’s footprint from Monday 28 October during off-peak hours will directly contribute to lower energy usage.

The Library Eco Mode has been well-received by key stakeholders, with an understanding that any changes will prioritise user experience and inclusivity.