Northwestern University Libraries has begun a master plan study to create an architectural program that aligns the uses and designs of library facilities with new services and strategies. What will the library system look like 20 years from now? What type of digital resources might be planned for the incoming class of 2030, how will our distinctive special collections be housed, and what must our buildings do to support both the diverse resources and the researchers using them? Authorized by the Office of the Provost and in conjunction with Facilities Management, this comprehensive study will consider space needs of the Northwestern University Library, Galter Health Sciences Library, and the Pritzker Legal Research Center, and propose a long-range plan to suggest approaches to meeting those needs. The architectural firm RMJM Hillier has been selected to conduct the master plan study and will be working with University faculty, students, and staff over the next six months to examine existing spaces and look at new ways to utilize these spaces to continue to provide essential services and perhaps new services desired by the campus community.

In the coming months, RMJM Hillier will be conducting web-based surveys of faculty and students; in fact, surveys have been sent to Feinberg students in the past week, and faculty and staff will be surveyed in June.  Northwestern University Libraries and Facilities Management staff will provide forums for general comments on the planning in summer 2008 and responses to proposals in fall 2008. Questions, comments and feedback may be directed via email to j-shedlolck@northwestern.edu