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.

Overhead photo of the lobby of Cook Library, taken from the second floor. Floor on the lower level is green and black with large white columns around the room. At the top of the photo are railings from the balcony that overlooks the first floor. On the left side of the photo is the circulation desk and to the right is the entrance to Starbucks. Photo is an overhead photo from the second floor, looking to the first floor. Floor on the lower level is white with black trim around the outer edges. Large white columns are around the edges of the room, with a railing on the second floor balconies. On the left side of the photo is the circulation desk, and to the right is the entrance to Starbucks.

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.

Photo is taken from the doorway of a carpeted space with tables and chairs lining the left and right side of the room. White columns are along the right side and windows to the outside or just beyond the columns. On the back wall are gray and yellow stripes, angling from the floor to the ceiling, that continue along the top of the ride side wall. Windows to Starbucks make the up the wall on the left side of the room.

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.

On the left side of the photo is an opening in a wall, a window, which is the service desk for research services. On the desk are two computers. On the right side of the photo are tables and chairs and beyond, that in the back, middle of the photo, are shelves with books.

Work on the south end of the building is in its beginning stages, and the first of three new elevators is currently being installed.