Summer 2026 Library Construction

What's Happening

You Asked. We Listened!

The library is constantly gathering your feedback on what you want Your Library to have. We are listening. One of the most heard comments from you is that you want more natural light.  In the summer of 2026, we will deliver!

This means, that we will be opening up windows along the front and west side of the building, more than tripling the amount of natural light on the second and third floors of the building. In August, we will welcome you to a brighter, lighter space.

In order to complete this work, we will have to close public access to the second and third floors of the building from May 11th – August. Yes, that is big. Rest assured, your access to all the Library services and people will not change.

What to Expect

May 8-9^th

• Furniture on the 2^nd and 3^rd floor will be moved and relocated on the 2^nd and 3^rd floors.
• A small section of books will be pulled off the shelves and remain unavailable during the construction.
• Relocation of Russell Chatham art to other spaces on the 3^rd floor.

May 11^th – August 3rd 

2^nd & 3^rd Floors Closed for the summer

• To meet with any employees on these floors, you will need to check in at the Library Service Desk first. We will then make sure you are met and escorted to where you need to go, safely. Everyone must check in at the Service Desk. This includes research appointments or events in Archives and Special Collections, the AI Lab, Center for Faculty Excellence, Office of Research and Development, Research Cyberinfrastructure, and Undergraduate Scholars.
• To check out books or materials that are located on the 3^rd floor, ask our staff to collect those items for you! You can request your materials online and we will have them ready for you to pick up at the Library Service Desk. Or, you can stop by the desk and we will help you.

August 3rd - 10th

2nd, 3rd, and 4th Floors are Closed to the Public

Why are the floors closed? Because your safety is our top priority! There will be lots of debris, areas of the floors blocked off, dust, chemicals, and loud noises. While this is inconvenient, we are here to make this as seamless and safe as possible without you loosing access to any of the great resources we provide.

When Will the 2nd and 3rd Floors Re-Open?

We don't have exact information yet, but it should be around the beginning of school. There have been delays as happens with construction and older buildings. We will open up each space as soon as safely possible.  Keep checking here for updates. In the meantime, let us know how we can help you.