Challenges: Noisy cobblestones and hard surfaces that amplify sound; obscured sight lines; and, the Browsing Collection’s serene ambiance in a busy and frequently busy space.
Entrance
Solutions: We replaced the cobblestone with terrazzo; removed the staircase to improve sight lines; and moved the Browsing Collection to one of the quiet study floors.
North
Challenges: Limited seating; prime traffic area; and a service point (Media Resources) without a clear understanding of what can be done there.
Solutions: Removed a wall that blocked natural light; added significantly more seating to create a flexible group study area; and moved Media Resources and combined it with Circulation to form the new Access & User Services department..
South
Challenges: Users who have different needs (group vs. individual work); a service point with limited visibility from the east entrance or any major traffic patterns; and, a beloved quiet study space (because of the natural light)
Solutions: We removed the reference desk and renovated the offices to bring the Research office entry up to the edge of the foyer; Installed a new technology assistance standing desk in the computer area; Moved the reference and map collections to another floor; Moved the University Writing Center into this area; and created additional group study rooms as well as individual study spaces.
More Post-Renovation Photos
