By Richard Ho

 

“We believe that the true value of a library lies not just in its collections or its services, but in how it nurtures and builds communities—communities of learners, researchers, and creators.” ~ A/Prof Natalie Pang

 

On 14 Nov 2024, NUS Libraries and NUS Graduate School proudly launched the Collaborative Experiential Space at Central Library Level 4. This new space is designed to support the NUS graduate students and wider community in their academic, personal and professional journeys. Through a series of activities such as exhibitions and curated books, it aims to foster an environment that inspires self-discovery, reflection and growth.

At the launch, opening remarks were delivered by A/Prof Natalie Pang (University Librarian) and Prof Jessica Pan (Vice Provost of Graduate Education and Dean of NUS Graduate School). Prof Pan highlighted in her speech the challenges of graduate life which includes balancing coursework and research, to managing personal commitments. It is hoped that this space will provide the supportive community and nurturing environment to help the community thrive together.

 

Nurturing Growth, Transformation and Metamorphosis

To commemorate the collaboration in shaping the Collaborative Experiential Space, Prof Pan (NUS Graduate School), A/Prof Pang (NUS Libraries), alumus Shu Wen and graduate student Muhammet Furkan Ilaslan came together to create a palm printing artwork with the help of local artist and designer CherylTArt. The palm prints were artistically transformed into a beautiful butterfly, signifying transformation, growth and metamorphosis—themes that echo the research and learning journeys of NUS students.

 

Talk on Gut-Brain Connection

As part of the programme, NUS Graduate School’s Student Life and Wellbeing unit invited NUS alumnus Sew Shu Wen, Chief Technology Officer and co-founder of Curated Culture, for a talk on the gut-brain connection. Shu Wen shared an evidence-based approach on managing gut health to improve your overall wellbeing and valuable takeaways on her entrepreneurial journey as she moved from research to industry. The session ended in a lively Q&A, sparking engaging discussions among participants.

 

More about the Collaborative Experiential Space

NUS Libraries’ Curated Collections

Explore our curated collections and resources, updated regularly to align with each exhibition theme! Dive into the current theme on the gut-brain axis, wellbeing and gratitude.

You can also browse and read these books at the Collaborative Experiential Space!

 

 

Community Activity

The space inspires self-reflection and gratitude. Since its launch, the Gratitude Tree has flourished with heartfelt notes from the community, a testimony to the community’s shared effort to nurture growth, transformation, and blossom together.

 

 

Curated Exhibition Materials

The space features regularly updated exhibitions that inspire and engage. Check out the current displays created by the NUS Graduate School’s Student Life and Wellbeing team!

 

 

 

 

Do drop by the Collaborative Experiential Space to learn more about the exhibitions, books and activities. Feel free to leave us your feedback about the space as we continue to grow and transform the space over the next semester!