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You Said, We Did: Library Digital Services — Spring Update

  • Written byRowan Williamson
  • Published date 09 March 2026
Library computer and Wacom tablet
Library computer and Wacom tablet

Your ideas are shaping what we buy, test, and improve across UAL libraries

When we asked last term what digital tools would make your coursework and creative practice easier, you delivered—over 200 ideas across our libraries. We read every suggestion and we’re already acting on many of them. Here’s what’s changing now, what’s coming next, and how to keep your ideas flowing.

Your Library, Your Creative Space

All UAL libraries include integrated Library Creative Spaces—flexible areas to work, make, and test, supported by digital services like laptop loans, printing, and access to key software (including Adobe). At Camberwell, the Creative Space sits outside the library in the courtyard and is open 24/7 all year round—perfect for those late‑night bursts of inspiration.

What you told us

From quick‑fix power to specialist kit for making and documenting work, some clear priorities came through. Top requests included:

  • Portable chargers and power banks — the most‑liked idea (66 likes)
  • Printer for thick paper/light card (40 likes)
  • 3D printers (39 likes)
  • Small projectors (38 likes)
  • Kindles or e‑readers (31 likes)
  • Fabric scanners (31 likes)
  • A2 or larger flatbed scanners (30 likes)
  • Phone tripods (30 likes)

What’s already happening

  • Power on demand: We’re trialling portable charging options across multiple sites so your laptop and phone can keep up with your studio day.
  • Better show‑and‑tell: We’re testing visualisers to support object‑based learning sessions.
  • New kit incoming: Some sites are buying extra chargers and headphones, adding phone tripods, and updating existing equipment you flagged.

What’s next

  • Track the wins: We’re introducing a new equipment tracker to log trials, decisions, and future purchases—so you can see progress and what’s on the horizon.
  • Every idea counts: All suggestions go into the tracker (yes, even the LCF request for a time‑travel machine—ambitious thinking is welcome!).

What we can’t do (yet) — and what you can do today

  • E‑readers: Managing Kindle‑style devices isn’t practical right now. But you don’t need a special device—our e‑books and audiobooks work on your own phone, tablet, or laptop. Check the e‑book guide or ask your librarian for tips on annotation, accessibility tools, and offline reading.
  • Printing on card: We can’t offer this in the library, but specialist printing services are available at your college—ask at the library information desk or check the online guidance to find the right facility for your project.
LCC Library staff
LCC Library staff Derek Churchill

Keep the ideas coming

Your feedback shapes the spaces and services you use every day. Keep sending ideas—big and small: tellus@arts.ac.uk.libanswers.com or via the Library Services FAQs.

Want to talk to someone? Speak to someone in your library about Digital Support or via your librarian.