A New Era Begins at Princeton University Library as 10-Year Renovation of Firestone Memorial Library is Completed

From Princeton University:

…Princeton University has completed the 10-year renovation of its main campus library, the Harvey S. Firestone Memorial Library, and ushered in a new era for research and scholarship at Princeton.

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Firestone Library, one of nine locations within Princeton University Library (PUL), opened in 1948 as the first large American university library constructed after World War II. Guided by 11 principles, the renovation of Firestone aimed to redefine, rethink and revitalize this hub of campus life.

The project focused on creating a building that is well-suited to support modern library services and contemporary approaches to scholarship, while also providing inspiring, flexible study and work spaces. The renovation also incorporated a number of sustainable features, greatly improving the energy-efficiency of the building.

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“The Firestone Library renovation project has been a monumental effort,” said Princeton University Architect Ron McCoy. “It is more than a renovation; it is a recommitment to the themes that inspired the original building, which are no more than to encourage access to the use of books and, as time has changed, the broad range of technologies that support a liberal arts education. The original building, and the renovation, are dedicated to creating an atmosphere of a ‘humanistic laboratory’ that provides spaces of comfort and delight and supports opportunities for inspiration and contemplation.”

One measure of success for the renovation project, [Director of Library Finance and Administration Jeffrey] Rowlands said, is increased usage of patrons. During the past five years, Firestone has experienced a nearly 63 percent growth in the number of people coming to the library.

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See Also: Firestone Library Renovation Website

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