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

Exciting Renovations Coming to Steenbock Memorial Library!

We’re pleased to announce that two large active learning classrooms will be added to the first floor of Steenbock Memorial Library, alongside a modernization and expansion of study spaces and the BioCommons! The first floor of Steenbock will be closed for renovations beginning on May 19, 2025, and will reopen all non-classroom spaces in June 2026.
Classrooms will open by Fall 2026.

This transformative renovation will include:

  • Two large active learning classrooms (each seating 96 people)
  • Multi-purpose room (seating 40 people) for active learning classes, events and study space 
  • Conference room/large study room (seating 12 people)
  • Revamped BioCommons spaces for events and study
  • Multi-purpose collaborative spaces to connect students and instructors 
  • A variety of modern study spaces, including study rooms, booths, and collaborative tables
  • Convenient power access for your devices throughout the spaces 
  • A welcoming first floor entry with a new vending area for a quick break.

Important Dates to Remember:

  • 1st Floor Closes for Renovation: May 19, 2025
  • BioCommons & 1st floor study spaces reopen: June 2026
  • Active classrooms available: Fall 2026

Elevator Access Update: During the Summer of 2025, Steenbock’s public elevator will be upgraded. Elevator access to all open floors will remain available — just follow the signs for directions to the alternate elevator.

New & Updated Study Spaces – Spring 2025!

  • 1st floor: More open study tables with improved access to power outlets. Full modernization of study spaces and classrooms (coming by summer/fall 2026). Shelving will be removed at the time of construction.
  • 2nd floor: Improved access to power outlets in select locations.
  • 3rd floor: Additional and improved study space including group study tables, access to power outlets in select locations, and new carpet.
  • 4th floor:  Additional individual & quiet study space. Updated reflection space will move here Summer of 2025.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

The 1st floor will remain open through the 2025 spring semester and will close beginning May 19, 2025 for renovation. Study spaces will reopen in June 2026 with the active learning classrooms opening for the Fall semester 2026. This exciting renovation will include:

  • Two large active learning classrooms (each seating 96 people)
  • Multi-purpose room (seating 40 people) for active learning classes, events and study space 
  • Conference room/large study room (seating 12 people)
  • Revamped BioCommons spaces for events and study
  • Multi-purpose collaborative spaces to connect students and instructors 
  • A variety of modern study spaces, including study rooms, booths, and collaborative tables
  • Convenient power access for your devices throughout the spaces 
  • A welcoming first floor entry with a new vending area for a quick break.

Alternative study spaces to what is currently on the 1st floor include:

  • A variety of study spaces are available on the 2nd-4th floors of Steenbock. Steenbock will not have group study rooms available until the 1st floor reopens.
    • 2nd floor: Open study tables and computing, reservable conference room
    • 3rd floor: Open study and individual tables, reservable conference room
    • 4th floor: Quiet individual and open study table + reflection space
  • Campus libraries, including the AMP Library, Chemistry Information Commons, Social Work Library, and the Geology Library.  You can reserve a library study room here.
  • Campus buildings nearby, including the CALS Student Center (M-F, 7am-8pm)  in 25 Agricultural Hall (some 2 person, first-come first served rooms and several  10-40 person reservable rooms)

From 2025-2026 academic year, 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.

The vending area and microwave are temporarily relocated to the west wall of the 1st floor. After the 2025 spring semester, they will be moved to the 2nd floor for the duration of the renovation project.

In preparation for these renovations, Steenbock relocated print collections within the building (3rd/4th floors) or to the Verona Shelving Facility (VSF) to allow the 1st floor to be dedicated to active learning classrooms and other learning spaces

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:
  • Monographs/books that did not fit the above criteria were 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:

Steenbock’s public elevator is being replaced in June and July 2025.  During that time, signs will direct you to our staff elevator so that you can travel between floors, including accessing the Archives on the 4th floor.  Should you have any questions please ask the staff at our service desk when you come on the 2nd floor.  Both sets of stairs will also continue to be available during this time.

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