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Proposed Library Facilities

University Colonnade at Library West

University Colonnade at Library West

Plans have been approved to replace the existing colonnade that connects Library West to Smathers Library with a new and improved one to complement the future redesigned Plaza of the Americas. The plan is to establish a more attractive and architecturally compatible entrance to Library West, while providing an enhanced outdoor environment for students.

The existing environment will be transformed to provide a generous space with options for lounging, studying and eating. Solar panels will power large ceiling fans and overhead lighting, as well as electricity for charging stations at most tables and on the brick benches. WiFi is already available.

The new colonnade and the adjacent area will have seating for 290 people. There will be seating for 91 at tables and 72 on benches under the colonnade. An additional 87 seats, mostly at tables, will be in a Garden Terrace between the colonnade and the library and 40 more seats will be on another terrace along the edge of the Plaza.

The project has high student interest and strong administrative support, so the Libraries are seeking donor funding to fulfill this vision. Once built, the colonnade and surrounding terraces will provide a comfortable outdoor space for students to enjoy that will overlook the redesigned Plaza of the Americas.