Project Information

HISTORY & VISION

Students were the driving force behind the call to renovate Albertson Hall. While the project initially focused on renovation, it transitioned to a full replacement due to significant structural issues and cost considerations. Approved in 2021, the new building was completed in 2026.

The Kirby Library & Student Resource Center (SRC) is a modern learning commons that brings together multiple student support services in one place, making it easier for students to access the help they need. The result is a building designed to serve as the academic heart of campus.

 

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN

The SRC is designed to be sustainable and energy efficient. Key features included:

Energy Efficiency
• 30% electricity savings compared to current state energy code
• 20% thermal energy savings
• Energy Use Intensity (EUI) of 46 kBtu/sf-year

Solar Energy
• A 213 kW photovoltaic array
• Generates about 20% of the building’s electricity

Water Conservation
• Low-flow fixtures throughout the building

Roof and Site Design
• A white reflective roof to reduce heat island effect
• Green roofs visible from study spaces
• Redevelopment of Specht Forum (The Sundial) with natural grass

These features support a healthier environment and reduce long-term energy use aligned with our campus values.

 

STATS & FACTS

151k sq ft
Gross total area
$96 Mil
Total budget
21k sq ft
bird frit-treated glass

The main Library desk is made from ash wood that was salvaged from campus trees.

Mosaic tiles are placed throughout the building referencing the iconic campus mural, E Pluribus Unum. All tiles were created by students in the 1960s – a fitting connection to the student-centered space in the SRC.

UNITS IN THE SRC
The SRC is a unique resource in that it brings many student support services together.

academic success suite

  • Academic and Career Advising Center (ACAC)
  • Disability Resource Center (DRC)
  • Mary K. Croft Tutoring-Learning Center (TLC)
  • Office of International Education (OIE)

student services suite

  • Financial Aid and Veteran Services
  • Office of the Registrar
  • Student Financial Services (Bursar)

other units

  • Center for Inclusive Teaching & Learning
  • Critical Thinking Center
  • Information Technology Desk Annex
  • Mary Reinhart University Library
  • Nelis R. Kampenga University Archives and Area Reseach Center
  • Office of Student Retention
  • University College

Watch the demolition of Albertson Hall (1970 – 2023) and construction of the SRC.

LIBRARY SPACES

Library resources are available throughout the building. Highlights include:

• Research help and circulation services
• Library collections
• Archives and special collections
• Labs for library instruction

The library stacks occupy floors 1–3 and the structural design of the building allows the layout of the collections to change easily in the future.

 

SPACES & FEATURES

The building is designed to support how students learn, study, and connect. Spaces and features include:

• Quiet study areas
• Group collaboration rooms
• Informal gathering areas
• Meeting rooms
• Computing lounges
• Tutoring spaces
• Advising offices
• Lactation room (3rd floor)
• Wellness rooms (2nd and 4th floors)
• All-gender restrooms on every floor
• Adult changing table (1st floor restroom)