THE HIVE has scooped another prestigious national award for its cutting-edge design.
The gold-cladded library triumphed at the Society of College, National and University Libraries (SCONUL) Design Awards 2016 – winning the ‘Development over 2,000sqm’ category.
SCONUL represents all university libraries in the UK and Ireland as well as national libraries, and many of the UK’s colleges of higher education.
Awards are given on the basis of functional design of buildings, rather than just on architectural merit.
Since opening in 2012 the £60million library, which is a partnership between the University of Worcester and Worcestershire County Council, has won more than 25 awards.
Professor David Green, University of Worcester Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive, said: “The Hive has proved a wonderful success over the past four and a half years. It is beautiful and inspirational, serves the whole community and inspires the next generation into reading.
“At the same time it is highly efficient and an international exemplar of imagination and outstanding service for University students, staff and members of the public alike.
Coun Simon Geraghty, Leader of Worcestershire County Council, said: “We are delighted that The Hive has been recognised with this award.
“It has transformed library services for both the City of Worcester and our ever growing University of Worcester.
“It is a joint university and community library service that is unique in the country and cherished by residents and students alike.
“Council provided services and academic provision blend seamlessly throughout the distinctive building, providing students with quality study space alongside, residents’ life-long learning.”
