The goal of this visioning study was to expand upon the definition of this nearly 60-year-old building from a traditional academic library to a campus Student Success Center. Over time, the Library has donated space to other university departments that were added in a non-cohesive unplanned way. The long-term campus plan slated this building for improvement work with most the budget allocated to a full mechanical system replacement. After a building assessment and multiple engagement sessions with staff, stakeholders, students, and library patrons, the priorities geared the remainder of the budget toward resolving ADA accessibility at the building entries, restroom renovations, and upgrading the vertical circulation to improve visual connections between floors. The effort of the study defined and prioritized current and future needs of the facility with a “road map” on where to upgrade spaces now and as funds become available.

The reconfiguration and refresh will create a new entry experience with a reorganized a layout to open views across the main level and vertically unify all three levels of the building for improved visual organization and enhanced connectivity between departments. Incorporating an elevator at the main entry eliminates a myriad of ramps to bring accessibility where it is most needed. Reworking the rear entry ramp will improve access and enhance the entry experience to what is currently an undistinguished “back door” to the building. Peeling off layers of accumulated walls around the central stair will open views to the upper and lower levels, unifying the building and promoting self-wayfinding. The building is currently used by the Library, Library Administration, Archives, Curriculum, Communication Studies, Academic Departments such as Honors, Undergraduate Research and Creativity Activity, Academic Advising and Career Development, Learning Commons, and Academic Success. The reorganized layout creates more shared spaces across departments to remove duplicated study spaces, technology labs, classrooms, and meeting spaces which are under-utilized on their own. Reclaiming underutilized spaces gives the ability to relocate departments and library collections in a way to promote usage, staffing efficiencies, and develop a more engaging and inviting learning environment all within the same building footprint. Reorganizing and planning for future buildout areas and usages allows for correct sizing and locations for the full mechanical system replacement.

Assessing the building along with an in-depth engagement process together drove the reorganization design that will enhance user experience and better serve the University well into the future.