Library network modernisation

Project overview 

This project will improve the experience for users across the four buildings in our Library complex (the Fairhurst, Morrell, Burton and Borthwick) through the implementation of an enhanced and seamless wifi service. The initiative will improve efficiency of the existing network, eliminating coverage gaps and reducing dependence on wired data connections.  

The project will also enable us to facilitate other transformational initiatives across campus, including improving wayfinding and space utilisation as well as the ability to integrate these initiatives into the MyUoY app.

When?

The project began in October 2023 when we engaged a specialist partner, tasked with surveying the current wifi provision across the Library buildings.

Once we have these findings, the University’s Network team will formulate a wifi design for each Library building, detailing how we plan to improve the network across each building. We hope to appoint a contractor to carry out the work in these designs in spring 2024, and the project should be completed by summer 2024.

Why?

The Library complex at the University consists of four buildings; the Fairhurst, the Morrell, the Burton and Borthwick. These are important buildings on campus, providing a space for our students to study, our staff to work and the wider York community to visit and make use of our resources. These buildings are in high demand so having a stable, high-speed connection is crucial for the everyday running of these buildings.

This project will act as a model for future network delivery across the wider campus as we modernise the related infrastructure.

Benefits 

The benefits of this project include: 

• a reduction in the number of Network Switches which will lead to lower electrical consumption and help the University operate more sustainably
• improving connectivity, reliability and internet speed
• improved network resilience with fewer service interruptions.