Summary

The library expansion and renovation project will provide a state-of-the-art library facility for over 34,000 students, staff and faculty, plus numerous other users from the city of Houston and surrounding communities. It will also provide space for a much-needed expansion of the Honors College. The Honors College will be housed on the second floor and occupy approximately 17,000 square feet. The new South Wing will increase the total building space by 170,015 square feet. This represents a 48% increase, much of this in added space for books and library users. The addition will allow growth in the collection from the current 1.6 million volumes to an estimated 2.4 million. Most of the book stacks in the basement will be in compact shelving.

The number of individual study spaces will increase from 880 to approximately 2,630. The total number of individual computer workstations will increase from the current 144 to a projected total of 350. The project includes two classrooms in the basement for library instruction. The Elizabeth Rockwell Pavilion on the second floor will accommodate groups of approximately 350. This pavilion and adjoining catering kitchen will be a showcase on campus for special events and other multi purpose activities.

An attractive entrance and lobby/caf� area will provide users with facilities and services 24 hours a day, including study space, restrooms, vending machines and approximately 20 multi functional computer workstations. A food service counter will also be provided in this area and will be staffed at certain hours of the day. Public telephones, copiers and locker rentals will also be available. The 24-hour lounge will require card access after normal library hours. An attractive reading room on the second floor will overlook the library entrance and the Butler Family Plaza.