Library Renovation
In 2009, the Marriott Library completed a four-year, $79 million renovation project to improve seismic stability, to create new spaces and services meeting the needs of modern students, and to manage collections and technology more effectively. The renovated building now encompasses 516,000 square feet and the structure can withstand a magnitude 7.2 earthquake.
New spaces and program areas created by renovation include:
Advanced Technology Studio—A center dedicated to assisting students and faculty with applying advanced digital technology to their research and teaching, with features including video editing equipment, high-tech scanners, hardware and software for digitizing, and specialized staff to provide assistance.
Automated Retrieval Center (ARC) —A high-density unit that houses materials and robotically retrieves items in minutes. The three-and-a-half story ARC has the capacity to hold two million items.
Garden Terrace—The Garden Terrace offers spectacular views to the west and provides a protective membrane over the roof of the ARC.
George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Grand Reading Room—Made possible by a generous gift from the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation, the Grand Reading Room is a quiet, traditional study area with a modern flair.
George S. Eccles Special Collections Reading Room—The gateway to the world of Special Collections, this room offers a comfortable space where patrons can immerse themselves in collection materials. Patrons are greeted at a reception and reference area where they will receive assistance from librarians well-versed in the collections. The Annie Clark Tanner Western Americana Collection is just a few paces away.
Knowledge Commons—This bustling area is an information-rich and technology-intensive student center that embodies the integrated 21st century library. The Knowledge Commons provides access to 250 computers, 300 software packages, and expert technical and research assistance.
Mom’s Café—Named in honor of Ira A. Fulton’s mother, Myrtle Lee Markwell Fulton, Mom’s Café is a place for students to come for refreshment, to meet, and to plug in laptops. The new café also has exterior seating where patrons can eat, study, and use library materials outside during pleasant weather.
University of Utah Press—The University Press became a department of the Marriott Library in 2005. In winter 2008, the Press moved into a new office suite on the fifth floor of the renovated building.
View photographs and video clips of Marriott Library renovation
Read the fall ‘09 feature article in Continuum magazine highlighting Marriott Library renovation: The Chrysalis Opens
