Dubai, 10th Nov. 2008 (WAM) -- The University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) unveiled a new state-of-the-art library with an extensive collection of books, CDs and journals and value-added hi-tech facilities, designed to enrich the learning experience for its 3,300-student community at the Dubai Knowledge Village location.

The new library was inaugurated by Prof. Badr Aboul-Ela, Director of the Commission for Academic Accreditation, Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, in the presence of Professor Rob Whelan, President of UOWD and Raymi van der Spek, Vice President, Administration, UOWD.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Badr said the UAE was strongly committed to creating an environment that would foster higher education of the highest standards.

''Universities with strong reputation and programs tailored to the local market needs were welcome'', Prof. Badr said, but cautioned that the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research would not hesitate to take tough action against those who failed to meet the stipulated standards.

Prof. Badr remarked that the use of Information Technology had dramatically changed the profile of modern libraries, and commended the University of Wollongong in Dubai for raising the bar on library services by building a new integrated library, offering e-tools that have become a critical component of knowledge acquisition and research.

The new UOWD library has over 24,000 books, CDs and journals; a computer lab with 24 personal computers and five laptops and an overhead projector and a display screen. Students have access to over 200 online databases, 22,000 online journals, 3,000 online textbooks and more than 1 million articles, conference papers, reports, etc. There are 80 individual study spaces and six group study rooms.

"The opening of a complete modern library with integrated IT facilities is a key move in UOWDs strategy to take the education standards and student facilities to the next level," said Professor Rob Whelan, the President.

"We look at the library as a core resource for providing students access to knowledge thus enriching their learning experience. We have made sure that students have the best environment to pursue their projects and research."It has been an interesting journey for the UOWD library since the university was established in Dubai 15 years ago.

Copyright Emirates News Agency (WAM) 2008.