Massive UConn Library Renovations on the Books

STORRS, CT — The massive undertaking to bring the University of Connecticut's Homer Babbidge Library deeper into the digital age has begun.

Crews began working the day after graduation and hope to be done with the first phase by Aug. 15, UConn officials said.

The library is open, but the sound of jack hammers can he heard.

Students returning for the fall semester will find an open floor plan with moveable furniture, ample space for working in groups, and "all sorts of high-tech tools" that support both traditional and digital learning and collaboration, UConn officials said.

The changes "adapt to an evolution in academic libraries driven by the surge in digitized information and the changing way campus communities use library facilities," Library Vice Provost Martha Bedard said.

The work is the first phase of a five-year, $20 million upgrade of the 395,000 square-foot building, Bedard said.

All but a small section of Level 1 will be completed over the summer, with a final section on the east side of that floor expected to be finished in October, UConn officials said.

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Photo Credit: Peter Morenus/UConn