Regenstein A Level closed June 13 to Sept. 9 to create a collaborative learning center

Work continues this summer on a three-phase project to transform the Regenstein A Level Reading Room into an inviting and attractive collaborative learning center where students, faculty, academic technologists, and librarians can interact. Library and IT Services staff have worked with Woodhouse Tinucci Architects to create a design that will transform the floor into a vibrant laboratory of interactive learning.

From June 13 until September 9, the A Level Reading Room will be closed for phase two renovations. At the center of the floor, a broad, open area will be created, where groups can work at whiteboard panels suspended from the ceiling. Around this central zone, 10 new collaboration nooks lined with whiteboards will be built to allow four to six people to work together comfortably. Video monitors will be available in some nooks.

Last fall, during the first phase of the project, a 72-foot glass wall was installed, bringing daylight deep inside the room and providing a view of the Jean Block Garden. This summer, a new terrazzo floor and café tables will be added along the glass.

An easy-to-operate “one button” video production studio will also be added this summer, enabling students to create video essays and rehearse presentations.

In the final phase of the project, tentatively planned for summer 2017, contractors will create a 36-person active learning classroom and a technology zone, including studio space for creating web tutorials, producing webinars, and delivering online instruction.

During construction, crews will be working weekdays until approximately 4 p.m. The Library apologizes for the noise and inconvenience caused by this work.