Display Boards for Universities, Libraries and Common Rooms

by Paul Howe

Display Boards for Universities, Libraries and Common Rooms

Universities are not schools with bigger rooms. Footfall is higher, spaces are used at all hours, buildings are often a mix of old and new, and procurement has its own rules. Choosing the right noticeboards and display boards means thinking about each type of space. Here is a practical guide for estates teams, facilities managers and fit-out contractors.

What is different about higher education?

  • Heavy, varied use. Corridors, lecture theatres, libraries, student unions and residences all have different needs.
  • Fire safety expectations. Large buildings with many escape routes make fire-rated surfaces a priority in circulation areas.
  • Security. Notices on public-facing boards often need protection from tampering.
  • Sustainability targets. Many institutions have ESG or carbon commitments that shape specification.
  • Procurement routes. Buyers usually need approved suppliers and framework access.

Space-by-space guide

Corridors, stairwells and entrance halls

Specify fire-rated noticeboards to BS EN 13501-1 Class B-s2, d0. In public-facing areas, lockable or tamperproof boards protect official notices. Our specifier's checklist for corridors and escape routes gives you the questions to ask.

Lecture theatres and teaching rooms

Magnetic whiteboards are the dependable option, and many institutions are also considering glass. Our comparison of glass whiteboards vs traditional whiteboards explains the trade-offs. For unusual wall sizes or branded spaces, see our guide to bespoke and printed whiteboards.

Libraries and study spaces

Libraries need quiet and clear signposting. Acoustic panels and noticeboards help control echo, and literature holders and snap frames keep information tidy and easy to update.

Common rooms and student unions

Soft-surfaced felt noticeboards work well for events, societies and campus news. Unframed boards suit modern interiors, and coloured options help zones feel distinct.

Halls of residence and PBSA

Residential buildings face some of the tightest fire safety scrutiny in the sector. See our guides to fire-rated display solutions for student accommodation and display solutions for PBSA.

Outdoor notices and campus signage

Indoor boards are not designed for the weather. Use purpose-built external displays for entrances, car parks and walkways.

Procurement and sustainability

Adboards (Harewood Products Ltd) is a family-owned UK manufacturer based in Bolton, established 1982. Because we manufacture in the UK, lead times and customisation are straightforward, and our recycled PET acoustic panels support sustainability targets.

Working with fit-out contractors

If you are a contractor or FF&E supplier on a university project, we can supply boards to specification, provide certification documentation and work to programme. Tell us the quantities, sizes and fire requirements and we will quote.

FAQs

Which noticeboards are suitable for university corridors?

Fire-rated noticeboards, ideally with BS EN 13501-1 Class B-s2, d0 classification, are the usual choice. Lockable versions are available for public areas.

Do you supply glass whiteboards?

Yes. We supply glass whiteboards as well as magnetic and non-magnetic drywipe boards.

Can you make boards to bespoke sizes?

Yes. We offer bespoke sizing and printed graphics for special projects.

Planning a campus project? Call 01204 395 730 or email sales@adboards.com for a quote.

 

Back to Posts
}