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Steenbock Library Space Updates: Active Learning Classrooms, New Study Spaces and Collections Relocation

The UW-Madison Libraries are excited to announce two large active learning classrooms will be added to Steenbock Memorial Library’s first floor, along with expanded and updated study spaces. Steenbock is preparing to integrate classroom active learning into its existing ecosystem of spaces, experts, and information that supports student and research success. This is a partnership between the Division of Teaching and Learning and the Libraries. Detailed planning for the renovation of these spaces began in early 2024. The active learning classrooms are expected to become available by Fall 2026. 

New & Updated Study Spaces – Fall 2024!

  • 1st floor:  More open study tables with improved access to power outlets. Full modernization of study spaces and classrooms coming by Fall 2026. Shelving will be removed at the time of construction.  
  • 2nd floor: Improved access to power outlets in select locations.
  • 3rd floor: New in November 2024 – Increased study space with natural lighting and more access to power outlets.  Many seats also now have a great view outside. 
  • 4th floor:  Coming in Spring 2025 – additional individual & quiet study space.

Empty shelving 4th floor will be removed over Winter Interim!
Thanks for your patience while we update our spaces.

Interested in sharing your ideas for how our spaces could meet your needs?
Please share your feedback here!

books on a shelf

Print Collection Relocation

  • In preparation for these renovations, Steenbock  relocated most collections within the building (3rd/4th floors) or to the Verona Shelving Facility (VSF).  Books that remain on the 1st floor are still in the process of being relocated to VSF during Fall of 2024 and will remain accessible unless they are in the process of being actively moved. Print journals (legacy & current) moved to the Verona Shelving Facility. A few titles will remain at Steenbock until bound for preservation and are shelved with the books.  
  • Print books/monographs moved to 3rd/4th floor or Verona Shelving Facility:
    • Books that were used or acquired since 2014 or that have been checked out multiple times since 2000 have been moved to Steenbock’s 3rd or 4th floor. (Select monographic series that are available online have moved to VSF):
      • A-TI on 4th floor
      • TJ-Z on 3rd floor (including the complete Cookbook Collection – TX classification).
    • Monographs/books that do not fit the above criteria are in the process of being moved to VSF.
  • The Libraries will continue to expand access to e-book content and convert any remaining print journals to online when possible.

Ongoing access to any items that are moved to the Verona Shelving Facility will be available by:

Frequently Asked Questions

1st floor: A  workspace has been designated as a base for relocation staff on the 1st floor.  Collections from the 1st floor are being relocated and there will be some activity in the stacks during weekdays during Fall 2024. .

3rd floor:  The empty shelving was removed and the floor reopened November 2024 with increased seating, study space, and new carpeting.

4th floor:  Empty shelving will be removed sometime after finals, Fall 2024.

We’ll share updates about any noise or change in access when work occurs on 4th floor.

It may be noisier than usual during weekdays, 9:00am-5:30pm (quieter evenings/weekends). Earplugs are available at the Service Desk on the 2nd floor. Staff can also identify places in the building that will likely be quieter based on the current work in the building.

Shelving removal and carpet installation are expected to be noisy and may disrupt access to some spaces.  We’ll provide advance notice of when this will be happening so you can plan where you will be studying.  Any noise disruptions are only expected during weekdays.  

The vending area and microwave are temporarily relocated to the west wall of the 1st floor.

The 1st floor renovation is expected to begin in the summer of 2025 and be completed by the summer of 2026.  This exciting renovation will include:

  • Two large active learning classrooms that each seat over 90 people
  • One small multi-purpose room for active learning classes, events and collaboration/study space that seats approximately 40 people
  • Updated BioCommons event space and study spaces
  • Multi-purpose collaborative spaces to connect students and instructors 
  • Modern study spaces including booths, study rooms, tables
  • Power for your devices everywhere 
  • First floor entry with new vending area 

Use our Steenbock Library Feedback Form.  We welcome suggestions and ideas for continued improvement of our spaces.