A book sale is underway at the CQU Gladstone Library and will continue until Friday, August 13.

The books are being sold to make room for a refurbishment of the library.

Campus Library Manager Karin Simon said that increased electronic access to information and a change in learning style meant the books were no longer relevant to the teaching and research focus of the campus.

“This means that prospective buyers could find fabulous bargains for only 50 cents each in all areas including business, education, literature and history,” said Mrs Simon.

"We would love all of these items to go to good homes. Books will always have a place in libraries but in these times of increased electronic access to information we need to ensure that our students have access to the best and most appropriate material for their studies, whether this is in print or online.".

The book sale signals the beginning of the refurbishment of the library into an "information commons" which will incorporate more computer spaces, more learning spaces and more comfortable spaces.

"Learning has changed dramatically over the past five years in the higher education environment and many disciplines now require students to work in groups on projects. “This shift in students' learning and interactivity with their peers requires areas that are conducive to this type of learning so libraries are changing to provide these facilities,” said Mrs Simon.

Students at CQU Gladstone can already have a coffee, soft drink or a snack in their library. The addition of lounges, coffee tables and cafeteria-style booths will complement the new computer lab, improved group study rooms and computer clusters included in the refurbishment.

Items are available for browsing and purchase during library hours and during the Campus Information Evening on Wednesday August 3 from 5-7pm. Please phone 1300 369 038 and ask to be put through to the Gladstone Library for more information.