University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown

Library Update

Pitt-Johnstown Home Page

Search

Query

About Us

Academics

Admissions

Campus Life

Student Services

Athletics

Library Update

Article Body: The Owen Library project has seen no significant progress since the update posted in October. Design Alliances, the architectural firm for the project, is working toward a final design to present to the state, and the state is tentatively scheduled to review those plans on February 19, 2002. Originally, the projected starting date for the library renovations was May 2002, but because of the state's economic downturn, there is a possibility that the project may not begin until August or later. The state must approve the proposed budget before the university can begin to solicit bids. The renovation, including asbestos removal, roof replacement, and HVAC upgrading, is expected to take twelve to eighteen months.

Current plans call for an on-site temporary facility to house library staff, course reserves, and other frequently used materials. These modular classrooms are to be located just east of Owen Library with convenient access to utilities.

Because of space limitations, the university is planning to lease space for long-term storage of material that seldom circulates. Although a lease has not been finalized, university officials are making it a priority to locate a storage site as close to the campus as possible. Library staff will operate a courier service to retrieve books and other materials from storage.

Various ideas are also being considered to provide study space for students. Presently, the university plans to use classroom space in Biddle Hall and Krebs Hall, conference rooms in the Student Union, or possibly space in student residences.

Additional updates will be on-line as information becomes available.

Posted by [Deleted User] on 1/2/2002 8:20:00 PM