Big Changes at the AUC Library

The library plaza and the Serenity Room are being reimagined to become a hub equipped with accessible technology, collaborative learning spaces and modern, dynamic furniture. Construction began April 1 on the garden level and will be completed by September 1 in time for the start of the fall semester.

“Learning isn’t confined to the classroom, students develop just as much beyond its walls as they do within them,” shared Lamia Eid ’88, ’92, dean of libraries and learning technologies. “We want to enhance how students can learn from each other in the collaborative library spaces and add to the student experience.”

The transformation of campus spaces has been a seven-year mission under the AUC Learning Spaces Strategic Plan Initiative. Renovations will include new furniture, flooring, lighting, and technology, as well as upgraded networks, modernized study spaces and a state-of-the-art Accessibility Hub. 

Accessibility has been considered in all aspects of the renovations, which target learning spaces. “Collaborative work requires flexible, adaptable furniture supported by appropriate technology to help students enhance their learning,” stated Eid, sharing that interactive screens will be added to the space. “We want to enable users with diverse learning needs to be able to work independently within the space.” 

“We want to enable users with diverse learning needs to be able to work independently within the space.” 

The updates will introduce a new permanent exhibition space for the Rare Books and Special Collections library, opening these collections to a wider audience of students and visitors alike. New furnishings designed to reduce noise will also help maintain an acoustically comfortable environment for study and learning.

So what can students expect? For now, the garden level is closed as of April 1st. Currently and until the final exams, construction is taking place on weekends so as to not disturb students with the noise. The rest of the library is still open, but will close to start the construction and remodeling phase of the Plaza Level on May 25, after the spring exam schedule has finished. During the summer, librarian services will still be available virtually, and students can contact librarians for book and research requests. Additionally, alternative learning spaces have been identified for students looking for places  to study  during the summer. As students return to school in the fall, they’ll be met with an updated, state-of-the-art library, ready to guide them on their learning journey. 

“We are creating a space where students can maximize the outcomes of informal learning,” shared Eid. “We’re excited to integrate these technologies and develop solutions that strengthen and enhance the learning experience.”