A Building Refreshed

It’s generally understood that library technologies and plans have, pardon the pun, a shelf life of about 15 years. The local experience aligns with the conventional wisdom. In the years since the Library last saw major work, in 2003, programmatic and outreach priorities have continued to evolve, demanding a new set of improvements. So, right on schedule, the Library was due for a refresh last year.

“From the perspective of someone who worked on both renovations, the 2003 renovation resolved major goals of elevating the reading room and creating a more cohesive building layout,” says Kate Loosian, the facilities management project manager. “But the gallery was not a central priority in that renovation, and there was no need for a dedicated classroom space at that time.”

The most dramatic changes support these programmatic shifts, including an expanded gallery—renamed the Lia and William Poorvu Gallery—and a seminar space, both of which are supported by state-of-the-art audiovisual capabilities. Additionally, the relocation of pedagogic activities to the same floor as the Carol K. Pforzheimer Reading Room means that the Library can boost both staff efficiency and the safety of the collections.

Moreover, Radcliffe’s commitment to dynamic engagement with the surrounding community as well as Harvard students and faculty members is evident in these improvements—from the spacious new layout to the dedicated teaching space. The refreshed Schlesinger Library welcomes you!