Shain Library renovation to begin next summer

Thanks to the generosity of trustees, alumni and friends, renovation of the Charles E. Shain Library is moving forward. At its meeting in May, the Board of Trustees approved a $7.5 million expansion to the building that will include:

- More - and more technology-rich - group and individual study areas

- Transformed building entry and library plaza

- Updated, modern façade and interior remodeling

- Significantly more natural light in study areas

‌In addition, the Academic Resource Center, funded by an $11 million anonymous gift, will be located on the second floor of the library and will include the Roth Writing Center and the Office of Accessibility Services.

“Shain Library will be transformed to serve as a center for academic, social and cultural life for many years to come,” said Lee Hisle, vice president for information services and librarian for the College. “It’s going to be great to create a beautiful and exciting new space for our community.”

The renovation will add more than a 100 new seats to the building, quadrupling the number of collaboration study areas currently available. A new Technology Commons located on the lower level will provide flexible individual and group areas with access to key instructional technologies. An expanded Blue Camel Café will move to the main floor and provide a 24-hour study space.

A review of the final designs prepared by Schwartz/Silver Architects of Boston is underway, and plans are set to begin construction by summer 2014. Arrangements are also being made to provide services to the College community during construction.

The Shain renovation will be the final building project of the Campaign for Connecticut College.



June 26, 2013