Cook Library Renovations Moving Ahead
Work on the Cook Library renovation project continued during the months that the University was closed due to COVID-19. While we were away, the project transitioned from sequence 3 to sequence 4, and parallel work on the Bower Center construction project is nearing completion. When Cook Library re-opened on August 3, it did so with new flooring and finishes in the lobby and north half of the learning commons, as well as a brand-new collaboration zone in the northwest corner of the building.
The changes in the lobby are like night and day, with darker green elements replaced by brighter white finishes.
The collaboration zone is a 4,200 square foot space, located to the right as you enter the building, next to Starbucks. This new study space houses the student success book collection, Wēpa print stations, two treadmill desks, and vending machines.
Interlibrary Loan (ILL) has been relocated from the second floor to the first floor and may now be found as part of the refurbished Access Services desk next to the main entrance. It’s the place to go to check out and return library materials, including materials borrowed through ILL.
Research Services is housed in newly constructed offices located in the northeast corner of the learning commons. Faculty, staff and students can visit this service desk to receive research assistance finding articles, books, and other information. Staff at this desk will also provide basic directional and technical assistance.
Work on the south end of the building is in its beginning stages, and the first of three new elevators is currently being installed.