The new library at the Luton campus, which opened in 2016, is in the running for a Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) East 2018 regional award.

Set out over seven floors and costing £46m, the new library is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for students to use.

Bedfordshire’s Deputy Vice Chancellor (Resources) Donald Harley said: “We are delighted that our new library has been shortlisted for this award. The building is a fantastic addition to our campus as we continue to invest in our facilities to give our students the best possible experience. The University is absolutely committed to and focused on improving the student experience, providing a platform for the student voice and encouraging co-creation and collaboration between students and staff.  We are proud that this new library gives our students a place to work, to meet, to reflect and at times relax.”

Director at MCW architects Colin Moses said: “We are delighted that the new library has been shortlisted for this award. The project is a vital step in the ongoing regeneration of the town centre campus in Luton and a new landmark for the University. The design is our response to the challenges of the site and the University’s aspiration for an enjoyable, efficient and scholarly place that supports and enables improvements in academic and institutional performance.”

The new library boosts a range of resources, including 154,000 books on 6km of shelves, 530 PCs, 916 study spaces, a café and the Study Hub, where students can go for advice and guidance on academic and study skills.

The RIBA East 2018 Awards will take place in Cambridge on Thursday 24 May.