Space Availability - Research Commons

The Research commons is a visually appealing, neutral space ideal for events related to research processes or outcomes. Examples might include meetings of research groups, opening events for exhibitions based around research outcomes or public engagement activities. It is a large, open space with lots of natural light and a range of soft seating options. The room contains a mobile smart touchscreen allowing hybrid functionality and supporting laptop presentations. It is available for bookings of between 10 and 40 people.

When not in use as an event space, the Research Commons is open to all our users as study space. For this reason the library mediates bookings and may turn down a request if it is not appropriate for the space.  If in doubt, please submit a request for a booking and library staff will review your request. We'll confirm your booking as soon as possible.

No additional seating or desks are available, so please be sure that the furniture in the space is suitable for your event before booking. However, if you are hoping to provide catering for your event, please let us know in advance and we can provide folding tables for this. If you do provide catering, please ensure that all left over items are either thrown away or returned to the catering tables for collection. 

Please do not communicate the Research Commons as the location of your event to your attendees until you receive confirmation of your booking. Library staff may contact you to request further details before approving the booking. If you'd like to come for a look around the space before booking, please email library@sheffield.ac.uk or visit Western Bank Library and ask staff at the welcome desk for directions.