A Library and Learning Commons for the 21st Century 

In response to the evolving demands of global citizenship in the 21st century, as well as the needs of the 21st century learner, William Jewell is designing a modern center for collaboration and engagement. The College’s new Library and Learning Commons will transform the physical campus, host new programs, provide a technology-rich learning environment, and support experiential education across the curriculum.
 
On the outside, the Library and Learning Commons will be consistent with the architectural identity of the 160-year-old hilltop campus. Exterior elements such as Jewell’s traditional red brick, columns, ornamentation and a vertical presence create the front of the new facility. A host of supplemental benefits supporting the College’s campus master plan will be realized with this new structure: greater energy efficiency, new vehicle traffic patterns, additional green spaces and outdoor plazas and the opportunity to make the heart of campus fully pedestrian.

On the inside, the proposed Library and Learning Commons is designed to meet student and faculty needs with expanded access to resources. Some features will include:

• expanded access to on-line journals and research tools
• wireless and flexible computing environment
• video conferencing facilities
• studios for presentation rehearsals and media production
• digital classroom materials
• engaging spaces for faculty colloquiums, campus and community lectures
• training labs to keep faculty and students current with software and hardware developments
• flexible and comfortable spaces and furniture inviting conversation and comfort
• café with late-night access
• demonstrable commitment to sustainability and “green” construction and operation principles
• The Center for Justice and Sustainability
• The Center for Applied Critical Thought and Inquiry 

 View the detailed Floor Plans & Photo Gallery