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

  • Fellowes Launches New 3D Modular, Product Configurators

    Contract interiors and architectural solutions provider Fellowes recently announced the launch of new 3D modular and product configurators for several of its product lines, according to a news release. The new products offer SIF file integration and pricing for the Volo, Markerboards, Sena, and Rising product lines in connection with 3D Cloud, which provides 3D product visualization and 3D digital asset management.

  • Austin International School Library Renovation

    Established in 1999, the Education Design Showcase is a vehicle for showing off innovative — yet practical — solutions in planning, design, architecture, and construction. The Austin International School has been recognized with an EDS 2025 Grand Prize award in the category of Renovation.

  • Springfield Breaks Ground on $53.7M Pipkin Middle School Rebuild

    Construction is underway on a new, state-of-the-art Pipkin Middle School in Springfield, Mo., a major step in Springfield Public Schools’ (SPS) long-term facility improvement plan, according to local news. The $53.7-million project officially broke ground in early June, following years of planning and community input aimed at modernizing aging infrastructure and addressing student capacity concerns.

  • New Jersey PreK–12 School Breaks Ground on New STEM Building

    Saddle River Day School (SRDS) in Saddle River, N.J., recently announced that it has broken ground on the new Dr. Kristen Walsh Hall of Science & Entrepreneurship, according to a news release. The school partnered with DIGroup Architecture for the design of the new facility, which will provide the school with space to expand its STEM and business education classes.

Digital Edition