Fisher Library rooftop terrace to re-open after 30 years

_{View of the cityscape. Photography by Nicola Bailey}

After more than 30 years, The University of Sydney Library will reopen the rooftop terrace at Fisher Library to all of its library community.

The rooftop terrace, which looks out to an incredible view of both the campus and the cityscape, was part of the original design when Fisher Library opened in 1963 on its current site. While students and staff enjoyed the incredible outdoor space for many years, unfortunately, the area was later closed due to compliance and safety regulations.

Image of University's VIce-Chancellor and President, Professor Mark Scott and University Librarian Philip Kent

After a Honi Soit article that revolved around the terrace, interest to reopen the space began to grow. This led the University’s Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Mark Scott, to visit the rooftop with University Librarian Philip Kent.

With the support of the Vice-Chancellor, plans are now being propelled to have the terrace redeveloped later this year, allowing safe access to the terrace for the University and Library community.

While the final plans for the terrace have yet to be confirmed, the refurbishment will likely involve repairs to the roof and updating the rooftop to be compliant with current building codes. This also involves installations of ramp access, shade, outdoor furniture and plants. Access will be made available from the fifth floor of the library.

*_{Different perspectives of the Univesity and city view from the library rooftop terrace.}* _{Photography by Nicola Bailey}

“We all know that university life is about so much more than what you learn in a classroom,” said Professor Scott. “The Fisher Library terrace will be a place to socialise, think and relax. It will make an important contribution to our community.

“Our first priority is to get the terrace in shape for students to be able to use it again. Down the track, it would be wonderful to be able to use it as an event space for our University community from time to time.”

“We can’t wait to welcome staff and students back to the rooftop terrace,” said University Librarian Philip Kent. “The timing is yet to be finalised but we are working towards a plan to reopen in 2023.

“The library is such an important part of the University experience. We are here to help students with their studies, but we also want to enhance student life and wellbeing by providing inspirational communal spaces and amenities.”