A £500,000 refurbished learning support centre has been opened in NEWI.
The Edward Llwyd Centre houses the library, IT suites, a Careers Centre and the institute's Student Support Centre with its wide range of learning support facilities.
The building was originally opened in the 1970s, when it housed classrooms and lecture theatres. The library moved into the building in the 1990s as the number of computer facilities grew. The resulting Information Services building was officially opened by Prince Charles in 1993.
The refurbished centre was opened by Professor Roger Williams, the chairman of the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales, which financed most of the work.
Over the past 12 years the range of activities undertaken in the building and its importance within the institute has grown significantly.
The latest stage in the development has been the transformation of the library section and the introduction of a more friendly and relaxed atmosphere. In one section, black settees have replaced the tables and chairs usually associated with libraries while a wireless computer system features heavily in another.
The building was named after the 17th Century naturalist and scientist, Edward Llwyd (or Lhwyd) and the refurbishment will be marked by the unveiling of a display giving details of his life.
Professor Michael Scott, principal and chief executive of NEWI said: 'There is little in this building that Edward Llwyd would recognise. One thing, however, is constant. The love of learning which inspired him throughout his career is still here with our students today.
'They might not need to walk 3,000 miles collecting information, but for many the journey is just as challenging.
'Throughout their studies here, our students have the support of a number of teams dedicated to creating an environment where the student's natural potential can flourish. I am sure Edward Llwyd himself would approve.'
