Coming This Spring: The Davidson Library at U. of California Santa Barbara Will Receive a Makeover and Addition

From The Bottom Line (Student Paper at UCSB):

The Davidson Library, University of California Santa Barbara’s main library, is about to get an extreme makeover. Starting in the spring of 2013 a massive undertaking will begin which will add 60,000 square feet to the library and renovate 92,000 square feet of already existing floor space. Four main foci of the project, according to the online report, are the addition of a three-story building adjacent to the side of the Library closest to Ellison Hall, the renovation of the old two story Library into an Arts Library, a new Paseo to connect the Library and campus and an overhaul of the eight story tower.
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Davidson Library hasn’t undergone renovation in 35 years. Since then, enrollment has spiked and significant leaps have been made in technology. The way we use information has been redefined; therefore, UCSB has also deemed it fit that the technology in the library is upgraded. More power outlets will be added, wireless access will be expanded and a new state-of-the-art facility for the Department of Special Collections will open.
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“A library is far more than a repository of books. It is a meeting place or commons for the exchange of inquiry, were curiosity can be satisfied using various existing and emerging technologies,” university librarian Denise Stephens said.

The very green-minded community of UCSB need not have any concerns. The building will aim for a gold LEED rating.

Read the Complete Article
See Also: Sustainability and Repurposing Are Key Features of UCSB Library Expansion Project (via Davidson Library Web Site)

Filed under: Academic Libraries, Archives and Special Collections, Journal Articles, Libraries, News, Open Access