Cambridge, MA – Westfield State University (WSU) held its official ribbon cutting at Ely Library this past week to celebrate the completion of phase one renovations at the facility. The University’s President, Evan S.Dobelle, and Library Director, Tom Raffensperger, opened the library to students, faculty, and staff. The renovation of the older facility was initiated to better serve the needs of the students and faculty, as well as offer a welcoming, comfortable, and safe learning environment that is technologically and functionally integrated.
Designed by Cambridge, MA architects Prellwitz Chilinski Associates (PCA), phase one renovations (of two phases) included an overall scope of reorganizing the library departments for improved student and faculty access. New group study rooms were created along with 56 new computer work stations, creating a varied selection of seating and group gathering spaces within the library. The design relocated the main circulation reference and educational reference center to the entrance, alongside the computer work stations. This allowed for the centralization of high-activity space at the front of the library, and quiet-activity space in the more suitable rear of the building. Features includes new carpeting, furniture, finishes, millwork, a wood-patterned vinyl floor entry, and new circulation counters which all lend to a warm, brightened student and faculty experience.
“Since libraries are becoming group social centers, we utilized our experience in designing dining halls and campus centers and applied it to what a library has become. This design elevates the social, interactive, and collaborative experience for WSU faculty and students while addressing the desire for students to work together,” said Steve Allen, Principal at PCA and lead architect on the project.
”PCA has been instrumental in turning this shared vision into a reality. Libraries are the heart of an institution, and PCA’s design allows our students and faculty to navigate in a more thoughtful, social, and efficient manner,” stated Evan S. Dobelle, President of WSU. “The students and WSU are thrilled with new library design and layout. This project is another shining example of WSU’s unwavering commitment to continually improve the quality of student learning at our institution.”
WSU’s Ely Library was constructed in the 1960s and in 50 years the role and function of libraries has been transformed by the use of computers, digital technology, and progressive learning styles. Once considered to be a sanctuary for solitude and quiet, libraries have now evolved into dynamic, collaborative, and social gathering spots for varied activities.
Phase two of the project, scheduled for construction in the summer of 2012, will include new lighting and furniture, additional study rooms, a larger classroom, updates to the university archives, and safety and infrastructure upgrades.