Musselman Library, Gettysburg College

Renovations to Musselman Library were aimed at restoring, improving and modernizing both student space and infrastructure in the lower level of the existing Library. Careful surveying and programming yielded a great increase in net usable space while maintaining the original budget.

Working with the original structural layout, new collaborative study spaces were created. The centerpiece of the design is an open reading room created by removing previous inefficient layouts. This new natural light-filled “living room” becomes an informal study space utilizing mobile furniture. This space is combined with a new large classroom, smaller “teamwork” conference rooms, reorganized collections, computer stations, water fountains, and artwork display. Overall, the renovated space offers spaces for individualized learning as well as team project areas. A unique challenge was working around the campus-owned and operated cable TV station infrastructure located in the proposed classroom space. Careful attention to finishes and new lighting were chosen to complement and enhance the existing building. The lower level of Musselman Library is now one of the most popular student venues on campus.