The shortlisted student ideas

The Library Innovation Competition asked University of Leeds students to contribute innovative ideas to shape the future of the Library. 

We received many fantastic, thoughtful entries that we narrowed down to five exciting ideas.

The shortlisted ideas are:

• Re-imagining Laidlaw: A platform for creative student voices from Haniyyah Asam
• Leeds Library Life app from Nitya Laxmikant Bhattad
• Leeds Library Linc app from Marek Klodnicki
• Study with a View from Qianxiu Li
• Library tour and book club from Anastu Regita Nareswara.

We spoke with each of the finalists to learn more about their idea, their inspiration and why it’s important for students. Read their interviews in the following pages.

In March, the shortlisted finalists will present their developed ideas to the judging panel and live audience in the Helix event space. The judges will vote to select a winning idea. Book a ticket to attend the free event on 3 March 2026.

University of Leeds students can also vote online for their favourite idea to win the Students’ Choice Award.