Renovation will bring new floor, second story; learning center will also expand

A $3 million renovation of the Linn-Benton Community College library and learning center is right on schedule for completion in February, according to Kevin Nicholson, the college's facilities director.

Greenberry Construction of Corvallis is the general contractor.

The project began in June and is being financed with a $1.5 million bond and a

$1.5 million gift from an anonymous donor, said Marlene Propst, the college's director of advancement.

The original library was built 35 years ago and had few changes. It was a cavernous area, with ceilings that were two stories tall. Lighting was poor.

The renovation includes adding a floor and creating a full second story of space.

The learning center will grow by more than 7,200 square feet, and the total complex will encompass 27,700 square feet.

Included in the project are enhanced lighting systems, electrical improvements to provide state-of-the-art computer access, 14 new study rooms, including four that will be soundproof media rooms.

Improvements in the learning center will include new study areas, increased instructional technology, space for tutoring and academic support services, expansion of the computer lab, a student testing space, a new math classroom and a ready and study skills lab.

A major change will be the addition of an elevator.

"An interesting point is that the because the library serves many disciplines, there will be several ways those areas will be separated," Nicholson said. "That includes regular walls and soffits. It's definitely going to be a more inviting place to study and work. There are several areas that invite students to gather and study. That's different from when the college was first built."

During construction, the library is being housed in the Industrial Building B, the same space used when the college bookstore was being renovated a year ago.

The LBCC library is home to nearly 50,000 books and media items.

Alex Paul can be reached at alex.paul@lee.net or 812-6076.