The Special Collections Research Center
Review photographs of the new spaces.
As part of the D. H. Hill East Wing renovation, the NCSU Libraries has created a well-appointed, cherry-paneled Special Collections Research Center, a combination of public space on the first floor and staff work space and secure compact shelving on the ground floor.
The public space includes a reading room, conservatory, and state-of-the-art, museum-quality exhibition gallery. The reading room is furnished with large Thos. Moser tables and chairs for individual or group study, wireless network capability, and a historic collection of books authored by NC State faculty. The reading room also incorporates a new special collections service area featuring dedicated tables, public service staff, and expanded hours. The conservatory showcases the stunning astral bench resting on an oriental rug and a dichroic glass sculpture by artist Joy Wulke. Together, these spaces create a comfortable, attractive environment for contemplative study and scholarship.
The exhibition gallery is outfitted with casework from Helmut Guenschel, a leading exhibit case designer, slate-and-cherry flooring, and seating for comfortable viewing of exhibits. The gallery forms the centerpiece of the growing exhibition program that supports the Libraries' role as an intellectual center of the university. The program emphasizes sharing and interpretation of library collections and the promotion of their scholarly use. The gallery space has become a vibrant gathering place where NC State can educate, enrich, and interact with the community.
Source: Vol. 27, no.3 of the NCSU Libraries Focus (Spring 2007).
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