Category: main_library

Reorganization of the Bronze Tablets

Posted on by Heather Murphy

The Bronze Tablets in the Main Library’s first-floor north–south corridor are being reorganized to reflect chronological order and allow for future additions. The tablets will be temporarily unavailable for viewing during this project. Reinstallation is anticipated in mid-July.

 

The University of Illinois began the tradition of inscribing the Bronze Tablets with the names of students receiving University Honors in 1925. The Bronze Tablets recognize sustained academic achievement by undergraduate students at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Students must have at least a 3.5 cumulative grade point average through the academic term prior to graduation and rank in the top 3% of their graduating class.

 

Main Library Roofing Project: All Building Entrances Open During Construction

Posted on by Heather Murphy

Decorative: Exterior image of the Main Library

Work on the Main Library Roofing Project begins Monday, April 20, 2026. The contractor, BEAR Construction, will install fencing and temporarily close about eight parking spaces in the southeast corner of Lot E3, and set up overhead protection at all Main Library entrances.

All entrances will remain open during construction. The project includes roof replacement, repairs to dormers and interior plaster, masonry work in the north courtyard, and renovation of Room 422. Work is expected to be completed Fall 2026.

New Leisure Reading Collection

Posted on by Heather Murphy

The University Library is excited to introduce a new leisure reading collection, created to support reading for enjoyment. No syllabus!

The collection, located in the Social Sciences, Health, and Education Library (Room 101 in the Main Library building), will include more than 250 books with many New York Times best sellers and around 100 fiction titles. Leisure reading and play—graphic novels, board and video games, and gaming consoles—are also supported in other library locations, such as the Grainger Engineering Library Information Center, as well as the Media Commons, the Main Stacks, and the Literature and Languages Library within the Main Library.

Start browsing and discover your next fun read.

New Coffee Spot in the Main Library

Posted on by Heather Murphy
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The Espresso Royale R&D Lab opened in the Main Library on Monday, March 2, launching a pilot initiative that runs through May 15. The coffee spot will operate inside the Orange Room (northwest corner closest to the north building entrance facing Wright/Armory) Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., serving all faculty, staff, students, and visitors. Stop by for fresh dark and medium roast drip coffee, creamy vanilla cold brew, and coffee with hazelnut and cream, along with muffins, croissants, danishes, scones, fresh fruit parfaits, and a variety of salads—including vegan and gluten-free options. Note: the R&D Lab will pause service during Spring Break (March 14–22).
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New Reflection Room in the Main Library

Posted on by Heather Murphy

Reflection Room in the Main Library

The University Library announces the opening of a new Reflection Room—a quiet, welcoming spot for reflection, meditation, contemplation, or prayer. Features include a couch and non-locking cubbies for belongings, as well as a foot washing station. The Reflection Room is located in Room 438 of the Main Library and is open to all during regular building hours—no reservation is needed.

There is also a Reflection Room in Grainger Engineering Library Information Center (Room 229).