Arthur A. Houghton Jr Library

The College’s Library renovation project focuses on supporting the growing demand for collaborative student learning that takes place outside of the traditional classroom.

The project created a new hub for student-centered learning and a centerpiece of the College’s strategic commitment to improve student success, and maximize resources. The renovation allows for the combination of the full resources of the Library with academic support services to provide student access to instructional technology, collaborative learning areas, and individual study spaces that respond to demands of the modern student-centered learning experience.

The main entry includes a café, lobby, program space, and casual seating. A shared lobby offers visual and physical access to both the Learning Commons and Library spaces.

A centralized staffed desk for library circulation, reference, access services, and IT offers a welcoming presence and supportive entry experience. The design reflects the modern student and library collection needs while allowing flexibility for continued evolution.

Library collection needs have changed dramatically over time with an increasing emphasis on digital resources and reduction in print resources. As a result, space formerly dedicated to a portion of the physical collection is repurposed as student space.

Student needs and learning styles have also changed over time. The building includes a mix of seating and study spaces to accommodate both individual study and group collaborative study.

Technology infused with power and data infrastructure supports computers as well as places for students to plug in their devices and collaborate. The Learning Commons and Library have a physical separation so that different programmatic needs and security requirements can be appropriately addressed.