Construction of the Archives and Special Collections Building (formerly the Undergraduate Library) began this summer. The new building is currently at 15% completion and is expected to open in Fall 2027. It will house the University Library’s renowned University Archives, the Rare Book & Manuscript Library, and the Illinois History and Lincoln Collections.
“We are thrilled to be underway with construction on this project,” said Claire Stewart, the Juanita J. and Robert E. Simpson Dean of Libraries and University Librarian. “Our exceptional archives and special collections are heavily used in teaching here at Illinois and by scholars around the world. Currently dispersed across multiple campus locations, these collections—and the talented faculty and staff stewarding them—will finally unite in a single facility offering greater access and stronger security.”
Recently, the installation of a tower crane has allowed for most of the demolished material to be removed from the lower level of the building. Currently, the following work is in progress: elevator excavation on the east side of the building has begun, replacement of deteriorated 1990s waterproofing around the perimeter walls and on the tunnel, finishing demolition of the west pavilion and demolition of the plaza to begin replacement of that waterproofing, beginning to salvage and restoration of courtyard limestone, and continuing mechanical and other demolition. Initial framing of some interior spaces is expected in the early fall semester.
While construction is underway, students are making use of study areas in other libraries across campus, including the:
- Main Library
- The Orange Room – collaborative/group study with seating for 340; open until 11 p.m. starting this fall.
- Shebik Family Reading Room – quiet study with seating for 320.
- Media Commons and other study areas.
- Grainger Engineering Library Information Center – open 24 hours, five days a week, with seating for more than 1,900.
- Funk ACES Library – open until 2 a.m., five days a week, with seating for 350.
Learn more about the Archives and Special Collections Building and follow the construction progress at library.illinois.edu/specialcollectionsbuilding.
