Hale Library construction progresses at a steady pace despite campus closure. Lori Goetsch, dean of libraries, said construction hasn’t slowed down since the closure of campus.
“We’ve seen some work get done that wouldn’t have happened until summer. Because we are closed, it could proceed,” Goetsch said. “Most notable is the café on the first floor which will be a partnership with Housing and Dining Services.”
Construction crews installed lighting, casing, ceiling and flooring on the first floor during this time.
While the second floor was schedule to reopen March 16, it won’t see use until campus reopens. Then, the first and second floors of Hale will be ready for use with the exception of the original 1927 section of the building.
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Goetsch said the third through fifth floors will be under renovation until the end of the calendar year. The 1927 section will be reopened in early 2021. The Great Room on the third floor is also in the process of being restored.
“We’re excited about the changes we’ve made in the building,” Goetsch said.
Some new changes include a second floor entrance which leads students directly to the library and IT help desks. The second floor will house study space and 99 computers for student use.
Goetsch said a user space and juvenile literature collection will be located in the original 1927 section of Hale.
