Projects & developments

LLC Summer 2011 Enhancements

Blackboard Mobile Learn

Over the Summer the LLC has launched Blackboard Mobile Learn, a free mobile application that brings two-way teaching and learning to mobile devices and gives students full access to their module information directly from their smartphones. With apps designed for each mobile platform, students can check grades and announcements, view documents and powerpoints, create threaded discussion posts, upload content and more. Instructors can also make updates to their module pages within My Dundee using the Bb Mobile Learn.

Blackboard Mobile Learn is available on the following: Android, Blackboard, HP OS, iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch. Android, BlackBerry, HP web OS devices, - iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad. Search for Blackboard Mobile Learn in your App Store or scan the QR codes provided, search the installed App for 'University of Dundee', select and Log in using your normal same username and password.

Book Scanner

An Adem E-Scan book scanner has been installed in the atrium of the Main Library. This device can scan documents, books and other items to PDF with file transfer via a USB memory stick. Similar to photocopying, there is a charge for this service (5p per page) and users will require a University print account (PCounter) to utilise. Students scanning documents should be aware that conventional copyright restrictions apply and individuals are limited to copying 5% or a single chapter of any book. To use the scanner you will need credit on your Pcounter account and a USB memory stick with space to store the scanned document. Once you have these two items, login and follow the instructions that are adjacent to the device.

Improved WiFi

Earlier this year we asked students to vote on which issue within the library was affecting them the most. 45% of students surveyed highlighted that wireless network problems caused them the most problems, and the LLC and ICS immediately began to investigate and plan to increase capacity. This work took place over the summer period, and visitors to the main library should now experience improved wireless access.

QR Codes / Self Guided Tours

The LLC is making more widespread use of QR codes as they can provide a very effective means of providing information or applications direct to mobile devices. For instance, we are using them to provide quick access to our opening hours, introduction to self-guided tours, access to library search, resources and Blackboard Mobile phone apps. To use QR codes you will need a smartphone and to download and activate a QR reader. Go to your phones app-store and search for QR Code readers, free apps include 'QR Code Reader HD' and 'RedLaser'.

Improvements to study facilities

Throughout the Main Library and our site Libraries, the LLC works to ensure that you can access PCs or your own laptop or mobile device. We have significantly extended the provision of 240V power sockets and continue to improve study desks and related wifi provision. Following work over the 2011 summer period students now have access to 60 additional large desks on the top floor in the Main Library, each with two power sockets built into the desks. New desks and power sockets have also been installed in the library in Kirkcaldy. In DOJ library a new group study room for collaborative working has been created. Lockers are available to store laptops in the ground floor of the Main Library and Ninewells. Keys are available from the InfoZone.

Extended Opening Hours

The Main Library at the University of Dundee has some of the longest opening hours in Scotland. During semester periods the library is now open for up to 19 hours a day.

Mon - Thur 7:30am to 2:30am
Friday 7:30am to 10:00pm
Saturday 10:00am to 10:00pm
Sunday 10:00am to 2:30am

2010 projects