When the renovation and expansion of the Lemieux Library and McGoldrick Learning Commons at Seattle University is complete in 2011, it will be the largest capital project in the university's history.
The project creates a new 33,000-square-foot “front door” addition to the existing 92,677-square-foot facility, which will be renovated. Constructed in 1966, the original Lemieux Library serves 6,000 students and 480 faculty, as well as the surrounding community.
The project, which is slated for LEED gold certification, brings the library into the 21st century as the renewed academic heart of the campus. A multi-faceted learning commons on two floors encompasses a media center, digital commons, media production center, and mentoring and research commons. Also included are 24/7 study areas, interactive classrooms, a cafe and terrace reading room, three grand reading rooms, and a special collections archive and reading room.
Architect for the project is Pfeiffer Partners Architects (Los Angeles), in collaboration with Mithun Architects (Seattle).