1 person in an energy pod with 3 other people surrounding it
Wednesday, 11 October 2023

The Glucksman Library is pleased to launch HeadSpace – a range of student-centred features to promote wellness while studying. 

HeadSpace was launched on Oct 4th by Dr Patrick Ryan, Associate Vice President-Student Engagement; Ciara McCaffrey, Library Director; Ronan Cahill, Student President and Emily Rosenkranz, Student Welfare Officer.  

Designed on existing international best practice, HeadSpace will allow the UL community to recharge and refocus while using a new range of wellbeing facilities:    

  • Energy Pods - rest for up to 20mins at a time, allowing students to take a break to rejuvenate mind and body.    

  • Electronic Height Adjustable desks - study desks where students can sit or stand.  

  • Study Bikes – stationary bicycles with an attached height-adjustable desktop, which encourages gentle movement while studying.   

  • Health and Wellness Library Guide – offering information and recommended reading that provide practical support strategies to help improve health and wellness.    

The focus on student wellbeing is a growing priority post pandemic, particularly given the long hours students spend studying in the Library. Ronan Cahill, Student President commented at the launch “With so many students commuting and spending long hours on campus it is great to see facilities that can help ease the stress”.  

Dr Patrick Ryan, Associate Vice President-Student Engagement said “HeadSpace not only prompts us to take a break and offers a novel way of doing this, but it also reminds us that learning is not about toil and tears - comfort, relaxation and a different environment are great triggers for efficient and effective learning”.    

These initiatives support UL’s Sustainability Framework (SDG 3 -Good Health and Wellbeing) and the aims of the ‘Healthy UL’ Framework, by improving the physical, mental and social health of our students. HeadSpace at UL Library complements the University’s commitment to EDI; to support neurodiversity, enhance calm and encourage student wellbeing.