Vanderbilt University’s Central Library underwent a $6 million renovation that addressed 21st century teaching and research needs for students and faculty while enhancing the experiences of community visitors.
The renovation upgraded almost 19,000 square feet of existing space, increasing large, attractive study areas and, included two multi-purpose group study areas for the library to use for instruction classes, study sessions, and special events. The number of public workstations increased and the lobby’s four help desks were consolidated to provide a single service point for library users. A café was added on the fourth floor, directly accessible from campus as well as through the library. The project included a breezeway between the Divinity Library and the building’s L. Fort Flowers Wing, which fronts 21st Avenue, as a new exhibit gallery.
The renovation followed construction on the library’s eighth floor that is designed to provide group studies, more private study areas, a conference room, and social spaces. The project added 2,300 square feet of new open space for student study, with comfortable seating and natural light. The entire project was done Spring 2011.