Library Phase II nears completion
When completed, Phase II of the Ina Dillard Russell Library construction will provide Georgia College & State University with a flexible, multi-use building catering to students and faculty.
Phase II consists of renovating the previously existing section of the library. The original library was built in 1928, and an addition was added to that building in 1965.
“Phase II of our current project is a renovation of that old 1928/1965 building,” said Project Manager Mark Bowen. “Basically, everything on the inside has been taken out and replaced with new.”
The renovated building will feature many amenities designed to help students and faculty in their academic experience.
“[The renovated section] will have 39 study rooms available,” said head librarian Dr. Rachel Schipper. “I know for students that will be the most important thing.”
The renovated section will also house the University’s Special Collections department, which features material from Flannery O’Connor, Paul Coverdale, and other rare books. Schipper explained that Special Collections has always had to keep a portion of their materials in storage but will no longer have such space limitations when they move into the new building.
The oldest portion of the building is where the entrance with white columns is located. Once renovated, this portion will be home to the museum. The museum will have three galleries as well as an education room that can seat 68 people and is equipped with a screen and projection capabilities.
“This [room] will be wonderful when we have guest speakers, artists, authors in residence,” said Schipper.
The renovations are slated to be completely finished by fall of 2006.
“The contractor’s portion of the work should be completed within the next few months,” said Bowen. “Once the contractor is finished, I will be working with the library staff to move books, furniture, offices, etc. into their designated areas in the renovated portion.”
Schipper said that construction is always challenging and that the need for this building to last 30 years has made this project even more difficult.
“[It's been a challenge to] get everybody working in the same direction – to get the building to be the most flexible it can be,” said Schipper.
Other Phase II construction includes putting the finishing touches on the area around the library.
“The Facilities Planning department and our Construction Division will also be overseeing landscape and hardscape completion to the area between the library and Chappell hall and the old Parks parking lot,” said Bowen. “We also will be putting a new roof on the 1965 portion of the library. This was the only area not re-roofed during the course of this project.”
Posted by Colonnade Archives
on Feb 25 2005. Filed under News.
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