The University Library is currently developing plans for integrating core student services offered in the Undergraduate Library into other campus libraries. Informed by long-term usage data and recent student surveys, the Main/Undergraduate Library Integration Project will result in new and refined combinations of student-focused services, which address both time-honored as well as emerging needs supporting academic and student life success. Appointed by the Library’s Executive Committee and with the support of the Dean of Libraries, a cohort of internal working groups drawn from librarians from across campus will develop a holistic plan to address student needs across major physical spaces, including the Grainger Engineering Library Information Center and Funk ACES Library, as well as the Main Library.
The Main/Undergraduate Library Integration Project complements existing plans to construct an archives and special collections building in the current Undergraduate Library building, and further develop the model outlined in the Special Collections Research Center (SCRC) Redevelopment Plan Programming and Conceptual Design Study. Library facility discussions have previously ensued during numerous listening sessions, a January 22, 2020 Town Hall, and other campus meetings, as well as through the work of a campus-wide committee—the Library Consultation Working Group.
The integration project recommendations will specifically address user needs and service models during the time period when the archives and special collections building is being constructed. The Library anticipates discussions about the longer-term future of the Main Library building to be ongoing and informed by lessons learned during the SCRC construction phase.
A description of the project’s scope is available here:
www.library.illinois.edu/staff/committee/undergraduate-library-main-library-integration-working-group/
Implementation of the team’s recommendations will begin in Summer 2021, with the Undergraduate Library formally closing in Spring 2022 to allow for construction of the facility for archives and special collections. Library services will continue to evolve and be assessed as the archives and special collections building project is completed. The Library welcomes feedback from students, faculty, and staff on priorities for undergraduate library services, and significant areas the team should focus on in designing spaces that encourage community building among undergraduate students while connecting them to academic and student life needs.
To provide feedback, please fill out our survey here:
https://forms.illinois.edu/sec/2042004169