Renovations continue as COD library work begins

Renovations to the Student Resource Center at College of DuPage will kick into high gear this summer as work on the Library begins.

Located on the second and third floors of the SRC, Library renovations have been split into two phases. The first will begin in August with the top floor, slated for completion in spring 2013. Renovations to the main floor of the Library will follow with the transformation finishing up in the first quarter of 2014.

The Library is one component of the SRC project which also includes rooftop mechanical work and renovations of the IT department, Records office, Academic Computing Center, and the south lobby and atrium. When finished, the Student Resource Center will visually complement the new Student Services Center and refurbished Berg Instructional Center.

“It was important to address the Student Resource Center because programs and offices have moved out of the building and into new spaces elsewhere,” said John Wandolowski, director of Facilities at College of DuPage. “We saw this as an opportunity to create a multi-functional educational space while addressing much-needed system upgrades.”

Lisa Stock, dean of Learning Resources, said the Library averages more than 3,000 visitors per day. Renovations include upgrading technology throughout, improving study areas for both single and group work, reconfiguring the reference desk, and adding two third-floor entrances.

“This much-needed renovation will create a flexible, technology-enriched environment as well as better connectivity to the BIC and ACC,” she said. “Our patrons have been requesting these upgrades for years.”

The SRC south lobby and atrium, scheduled for completion in September, will be fitted with new flooring, wall finishes and ceilings, and energy-efficient lighting.

Work on the Academic Computing Center will take place in 2014. This comprehensive renovation includes improved access for students, modernized open lab spaces and revamped English Composition computer classrooms.

The multi-phased $41.8 million SRC project is funded by the $168 million referendum approved by District 502 voters in November 2010.

Alterations to the former Admissions, Counseling and Registration offices on the second floor of the SRC will be finished next month. Funded by a 2002 referendum, this renovated space will house the COD “Learning Commons” that includes the College's Academic Support Center and Center for Independent Learning. Additionally, renovations to the former Culinary program space on the first floor of the SRC will be completed this summer and will house Continuing Education/Extended Learning.

Other projects beginning this year include the renovation of the McAninch Arts Center, Physical Education Center and Seaton Computing Center, and construction of the Campus Maintenance Center.