An Information Commons update
January 2007
Winter is here, but construction on the Information Commons (IC) continues at a steady pace. The foundation work is done, concrete pillars for the first floor have been poured, and scaffolding is in place as the building grows in volume and height. Pepper Construction is doing a very fine job of turning the architects' vision into reality.
We are grateful to Devon Patterson of Solomon, Cordwell, and Buenz for his excellent design work. The building will not only be functional, but also beautiful with stunning views of Lake Michigan to the east and the planned campus quadrangle to the west. You will see the architect's drawings here on the IC web site as well as photographs which document the construction from the start on up to the present.
The details of the building's interior are being finalized this month with the selection of carpeting, tile, paint colors, and furniture. Although the IC's emphasis is on the latest technology, much of the furniture will be traditional with lots of wood and colors which reflect the environment of the campus: blue for the sky and lake and green for the grass, trees, shrubs, and flowers of the new campus landscaping master plan. It may be cold and gray outside this time of year, but inside the Information Commons you will be warm and comfortable.
The IC opens just one year from now. The library staff are excited about the new space and the opportunities for improved service, places to study and relax, and access to the latest technology. The Information Commons promises to be the center of campus activity for many years to come and it will be a facility we will all be proud of.
