Renovations begin

Library construction books on without delay

The realization of the new Paterno Library and renovation of Pattee are beginning to take shape as the first phases of construction are set to begin.

Preconstruction preparations should start sometime within the next week, said Pam Peterson of the University Libraries' public relations office. Students and faculty should be aware of some changes that will be made in the areas behind East and Central Pattee as part of the construction process, she said.

This week, workers will begin closing off areas around the construction site to prepare for construction to begin within the next two months. The pedestrian walkways on the east side of Pattee will be closed, as will the walkway that passes underneath the corridor between East and Central Pattee, Peterson said.

The drive-up book drop at the rear of Central Pattee will also be closed beginning this week. New book drops will be set up outside of the library in the near future to replace the existing one. Book drop-offs outside of West and East Pattee will remain in place.

A groundbreaking ceremony on April 25 will kick off phase one of a four-phase project. The project, which includes renovation of Pattee and construction of the Paterno Library, is expected to be completed in Fall 1999 at a total cost of $24.8 million.

This library renovation is the first at the University since East Pattee was built in 1972. That addition was to be the first phase of the creation of a major research library. The Paterno Library addition will complete the second phase of that project, more than 25 years later.

In 1993, head football coach Joe Paterno and his wife, Sue Paterno, headed up the Campaign for the Library. By late 1994, the Campaign for the Library Committee had raised more than $13 million for the addition and renovation of Pattee.

The creation of the Paterno Library is focused on providing new subject libraries and specialized areas, increasing space and accessibility and providing space for upgrades in technologies. The renovation to the existing areas should make for easier navigation through what can often be an intimidating maze for a student, and allow for easier access and entry to the library.

A new grand entrance to Pattee and the Paterno Library will be constructed facing Curtin Road, linking East, West and Central Pattee and the Paterno Library.

During the three- to four-year construction project, much of Pattee will remain as undisturbed as possible, Peterson said.

"We're going to try if at all possible, not to have the library closed at any time," she said. "There will be collections that will have to be moved, and there will be no access between East and Central Pattee. That will be the only real difficulty."