University Libraries Renovations

The Gorgas Library Core Support, Phase II subsequently ended in June with additional work replacing the HVAC units in the east attic on 5th floor with an expected completion date in early February 2025. Meanwhile, the University Libraries administration has been collaborating with Shepley-Bulfinch Architects, CMH Architects, and UA Construction Administration to plan Phases III and IV. Phase III is anticipated to begin in May or June of this year. This phase will involve renovations on the 5th, 6th, and 7th floors of Gorgas Library, along with the creation of a new Digital Scholarship Zone on the 1st floor. Please stay tuned for more information as it becomes available.

In recent months, various projects have also been planned and executed in other University Libraries
facilities. Scholars Station, the computer lab in Rodgers Library, received new paint, flooring, and
electrical boxes during Thanksgiving break. New furniture and displays were installed this week,
completing the project. Before and after pictures are included below to showcase the updates.
The Shelby Papers grant is ongoing in Special Collections and has allowed for light renovation of
processing spaces. This has significantly improved the efficiency of processing the papers and artifacts.

Photos are provided to illustrate the transformation.

Phase II of the construction project is almost complete, with contractors finishing up the final tasks. The fences on the northeast side of the building have been removed, revealing the newly completed
mechanical courtyard. Additionally, new landscaping has been installed to enhance the surroundings. An extension has been granted to the contractor to facilitate the installation of new power poles along
Capstone Drive. This installation work is scheduled to take place from May 28 to June 7, following which the construction fence will be removed.

June 10 to 14, Capstone Drive will be closed for repaving and striping. During this time, ADA Parking will be relocated to 7th Street, adjacent to Garland Hall.

Here is a map of the area so you can familiarize yourself.

Over the past year several updates have been made to Rodgers Library. The main level computer area received an addition of 5 team workrooms, updated paint and baseboards, re-upholstered soft seating, and new tables and chairs. Students are enjoying the glass walls and writable surfaces in the team workrooms. The rooms each have new tables, chairs, and displays for students to cast their assignments for shared research. On second floor custom built walls were installed to enclose two areas that will accommodate larger groups. The rooms were filled with custom furniture and glass whiteboards. Check back for more updates.

Gorgas Library Core Support, Phase II is scheduled to begin Monday, March 13^th.  This project will address deferred maintenance needs and install core infrastructure to support future development in coordination with the University Libraries Master Plan.   The interior scope includes new mechanical and fire pump rooms to house the new campus central thermal connection interface for hot and chilled water and fire water service. A new electrical room will provide a service feed to the new main switchboard in the building. A stairwell conversion will provide area inside the building for the new data, electrical and mechanical rooms and mechanical chase. Pictures provided to reflect what the building exterior will look like on the side facing Capstone Drive.

The Angelo Bruno Business Library reopened the 1^st day of Fall Semester.  The building received new paint, carpet, ceilings, furniture, light fixtures, sprinkler system, and HVAC system.  In addition, there are thirteen new team workrooms for student group study. 

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on September 16. In attendance were members of the Bruno family, the Library Leadership Board Committee and SGA representatives.  

The demolition phase of the project will be completed next week.  The northeastern most stair tower was heavily renovated to provide space for the new electrical and mechanical systems that will be installed during the next phase of work.  An electrical room was constructed on the lower levels.  The construction project is going to bid this week.  More information to come about Phase II.