The proposed McLure Library Addition and Renovation project will allow for the relocation of the School of Library and Information Sciences from the 7th floor of Gorgas Library to McLure in accordance with the Gorgas Library Master Plan. SLIS is part of the College of Communications and Information Sciences, and this relocation will enhance program adjacency to Reese Phifer Hall and provide additional space needed in Gorgas while maintaining the College of Education programs within the space.

McLure Library was originally constructed in 1925 and renovated in 1954 for the College of Education Library. The building has remained primarily unchanged since that time and the Project will allow for the comprehensive renovation of McLure and will fully address all deferred maintenance issues including all new mechanical, electrical, accessibility, life safety systems, technology and building envelope issues including new windows.

The existing character, detailing and quality of the building is appropriate and much in keeping with campus and the building features standard University materials including brick and solid limestone columns, cornice and window surrounds. Together with Autherine Lucy Hall, the buildings have complemented each other and been a part of the University Boulevard streetscape
for almost a century.

The addition will also provide space for code-required vertical circulation and an elevator as the building does not currently have one.

ADA access to McLure will be improved through the construction of a new entrance structure, which will also house program space below. Adjacent to the new entry will be a plaza and gathering space designed with brick pavers, precast seat walls, new landscaping, and site lighting.

The existing access plaza to the front of the building from University Boulevard will also be reconstructed as it has exceeded its service life and does not meet current structural code.

The Project will allow for the conversion of the stack space to general use and the floors will be aligned with the main building floors. The addition will not impact the University Boulevard elevation to maintain the character of the original building main elevation.