Boatwright Memorial Library reopens
University News
The recently renovated library features new spaces designed to enhance student learning and exploration.
A light-filled atrium, an enlarged café, and a windowed entrance overlooking Westhampton Lake are among the new features of Boatwright Memorial Library.

“We’re building a library that honors its role as a place of quiet scholarship while embracing the energy of digital research, active learning, and creative exploration,” said University Librarian Kevin Butterfield. “This renovation transforms Boatwright into an environment where students can move seamlessly from deep study to collaborative innovation, all under one roof.”
A new front entrance and terrace welcome visitors to the building, which re-opened mid-August, and features 24,047 square feet of renovated indoor space. The 2,400 square feet of new space includes a two-story atrium accented by skylights and Gothic-arched windows. The frames of the windows are custom-made of walnut and limestone, the latter drawn from a quarry in Indiana. Carpentry and brickwork mesh with existing historic structures. This area of the atrium previously served as a patio before the space was bumped out.
“When we enclosed the patio to create the atrium, it really became the centerpiece of this project,” said Travis Smith, head of general services for the library.
A wide, open stairway leads to the ground floor of the atrium, where the new 8:15 at Boatwright café is located. It’s more than four times larger than its predecessor, with more seating at tables, along a countertop, and around a Zen garden. “You’ll be able to sit there with a beverage or food and reflect on the lake,” said Smith.
The atrium opens previously walled-off space on the ground floor and brings in natural light.
In another section, sofas and chairs provide comfortable space for students to study. Sparkling glass display cases stand ready to hold collections of books that will be curated by students this fall.

“Today’s students don’t work in just one way and neither should their library. We’ve designed a space that evolves with them, meeting their needs at every stage of their academic journey,” Butterfield said.
Lora Robins Gallery reopens
On the same floor, students can access the newly renovated Lora Robins Gallery. The gallery houses over 100,000 pieces of natural objects, cultural art and artifacts, and decorative and fine arts.
“The gallery was a full gut and redo. Everything was redone to the studs,” Smith said.
The library will be outfitted with the latest technology. Power and USB outlets are available throughout the space, including on a sitting ledge on the terrace.
More will come as construction continues this fall on the first and second floors and the Weinstein Learning Center. The expected completion date for the entire library is August 2026.
“When we're done, it should be a showstopper,” Smith said. “We really want people to come into these spaces and feel like this is a place they want to be.”