"We chose to support the library renovation project because the Main Library is necessary for the academic success of all students at Ohio State. It is a special project that
corresponds with our philanthropic goals of benefiting young people and education within Ohio. We are happy to be able to do this." — Patricia D. and Thomas E. Robinson
University Libraries enjoy a strong reputation among fellow members of the Association of Research Libraries. Substantial renovations to the William Oxley Thompson Library - also known as the Main Library - will enable it to become a "library of the 21st century" and will further improve this ranking, corresponding with the university's continually improving status among its own peer institutions. With careful and imaginative design, the Main Library can achieve balance between traditional print media and services and the exciting changes taking place in digital information technology, offering a variety of resources and spaces for student, faculty, and community users alike. It will be a gateway to the universe of information services, both print and digital; a research center for all fields of knowledge, but particularly for the humanities and liberal arts; a showplace for the book arts and for new information technology; a destination and gathering place on the Columbus campus for inviting and inspiring space for reading, learning, and research; and a place of celebration through its outstanding collections and services. The architectural feasibility study for the new Main Library was completed in December 2001 by the team of Shepley Bulfinch Richardson Abbott (Boston) and URS (Columbus). Construction is set to begin in 2005, with completion of the renovation scheduled for 2008. At this time, the total project costs are estimated at $90-100 million. Development staff members are currently working with volunteer members of the Pre-Campaign Committee, who convened in December 2001 and who will continue to help to launch the $30 million campaign for private gifts.
University Libraries
Contact Gay Jackson 614-688-4341
iGive Homepage
Funding Goals and Status:
$13 million raised
$17 million needed
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