Library Launches Study of Facilities and Future Needs

EVANSTON, Ill. --- Northwestern University Library has begun a master plan study to create an architectural program that aligns the uses and designs of library facilities with new services and strategies.

Among the answers the survey hopes to examine are what the library system needs to look like in 20 years, what digital resources might be planned for the incoming the students and faculty of 2030, how distinctive special collections will be housed, and what facilities are needed to support the many types of resources and of researchers using them.

The comprehensive study, funded by the Office of the Provost and in conjunction with Facilities Management, will consider space needs of the Northwestern University Library, Galter Health Sciences Library, and the Pritzker Legal Research Center, and propose a long-range plan to suggest approaches to meeting those needs.

The architectural firm RMJM Hillier has been selected to conduct the master plan study and will be working with University faculty, students, and staff over the next six months to examine existing spaces and look at new ways to utilize these spaces to continue to provide essential services, to support library growth and to enable new services desired by the campus community.

From May 8 through May 24, RMJM Hillier will be conducting a web-based survey of full-time faculty and students and staff, randomly selecting participants. University Librarian Sarah Pritchard said, "If you are selected to participate, we encourage you to represent your peers and complete the survey. Our hope is to shape a library that meets the many different needs of Northwestern's academic community."

Northwestern University Library and Facilities Management will provide forums for general comments on the planning in summer 2008 and responses to proposals in fall 2008.

Questions, comments and feedback may be directed via email to planning@northwestern.edu or to your library liaison.