2024 Core Forum

Library renovation projects are filled with surprises, pitfalls, and endless decisions - far more than an inexperienced leader will generally expect. Panelists represent a broad spectrum of librarians, partners, and professionals who are integral to any facility project. Three of the five panelists are in leadership roles at public university libraries somewhere in the renovation process and the others hold key roles in keeping renovations moving and on track. Two are in the midst of renovations - one for their entire building and the other on the next step of a phased building renovation. The third will soon be kicking off a whole building renovation. Through the planning and renovation process, they have gained experience collaborating with architects, project managers, campus stakeholders, and their library colleagues to design a library to serve their campus community for years to come. This presentation will provide insight from the perspectives of library leadership, architects, and construction project management. They will discuss the importance of developing and maintaining partnerships with stakeholders on campus and beyond, navigating the complicated landscape of construction and renovation, fundraising, the best and worst parts of renovation, and lessons learned.