Villanova University: Falvey Library

Villanova University: Falvey Library interior images

PHOTOS © JEFFREY TOTAROO

As libraries move to become more interactive and experiential places for learning, transformations like BLT Architects’ recent renovation of the Falvey Library at Pennsylvania’s Villanova University are critical to maintaining an integral element to college campuses and higher education.

“The new Learning Commons in Falvey is an engaging, state-of-the-art center for learning and inquiry,” says Joe Lucia, former university librarian. “We wanted to create a more seamless network of support for our students by consolidating the learning space and establishing a central location for support resources.”

Renovations continue at the library with an update to the Falvey’s original reading room.

The preliminary phase of BLT Architects’ master plan for the Falvey Library transformed an open stacks area on the second floor into a new learning environment, creating spaces for studying, tutoring and research.

In addition, the shared facility brought together four separate programs that were previously scattered throughout Villanova’s campus: the research center, the learning support services office, the math learning resource center and the writing center. Furthermore, the Learning Commons houses a learning support services office, which provides resources for studying, academic coaching and support for students with learning disabilities.

Based on a “learning commons” philosophy, the design is developed around a shared street concept that exposes users to all of the academic support resources the university offers. Each program is facilitated in dedicated offices and workspaces that open onto a commodious corridor, which doubles as a lounge and breakout space. Arranged around the building perimeter, these spaces have large windows for ample daylight and views. The interior of the square floor plan is designated to shared classrooms, conference spaces and test proctoring rooms.

This article originally appeared in the issue of .

Featured

  • Recent University of Pennsylvania Projects Receive LEED Certifications

    The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, Penn., recently announced that three of its recent construction projects have earned LEED certifications, according to university news. The Vagelos Laboratory for Energy Science and Technology (VLEST) received a LEED Platinum certification, Amy Gutmann Hall a LEED Gold, and the OTT Center for Track and Field a LEED silver.

  • Kimball International Launches New Furniture for K–12 Classrooms

    Commercial furnishings company Kimball International recently announced the launch of four new products designed for a variety of professional environments, including K–12 schools, according to a news release.

  • Inglewood Unified School District Breaks Ground on New High School

    The Inglewood Unified School District in Inglewood, Calif., recently broke ground on a new campus for Inglewood High School, according to a news release. The project has a budget of about $240 million, funding coming through bond proceeds from Measure I.

  • California K–12 District Opens New Athletic Complex, Gym

    The San Mateo Union High School District (SMUHSD) in San Mateo, Calif., recently announced the completion of two new athletics facilities: a new gymnasium at Burlingame High School, and a new athletic training complex at San Mateo High School, according to a news release.

Digital Edition