A Tour of the Peter B. Lewis Library
On October 1, Patty Gaspari-Bridges, Assistant University Librarian for Special Libraries and Head of the Science and Technology Libraries and four other science librarians (Jane Holmquist, Steven Adams, Julie Arnheim, and Louise Deis) led a special Lunch ‘n Learn tour of the new Lewis Library.
Supported by a $60 million gift from class of 1955 alumnus Peter B. Lewis, a University trustee and chairman of the board of Progressive Corp., the Lewis Library combines the impressive collections and knowledgeable staff the astrophysics, biology, chemistry, geosciences, mathematics, physics and statistics collections, the map collection and the digital map and geospatial information center. It occupies the four-level tower and the A level below grade as well as a two-story wing along Washington Road.
Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the Lewis Library officially opened with the start of Princeton’s academic year. After almost four years of construction, the library brings together science libraries from across campus in a research and study space that is, according to the architect, intended to reflect the character of the people who will use it. The bold design aspires to reflect the University’s commitment to innovation and creativity.
A memorable highlight of the tour is the Treehouse, a spacious reading room with study tables, soft seating, and comfortable lighting on the second floor overlooking Washington Road. Its aerial views of nearby trees generate an aesthetically pleasing environment for contemplation and study.
The tour showed off an E-Classroom on the second floor. Librarians offer instruction sessions and workshops on the specialized software installed on its 20 computers. PCs and Macintoshes are also available for public use through the library. Members of the University community can also gain access to the networked printers on every floor.
The Tech Room contains PC and Macintosh project workstations with special software, scanners, and a network printer. Students also have access to nine group study rooms, 29 carrels, and 104 lockers in the new facility. Three of the study areas contain large display monitors that students can use for joint projects.
The Digital Map and Geospatial Information Center is located on B-floor of the Fine Hall wing of the Library. This GIS Center provides specialized access in the use of GIS for the use of geographically referenced data.
On November 5, there will be a second Lunch ‘n Learn tour within the new Library of the New Media and Broadcast Centers, as well as the new space for the Educational Technologies Center.
A gallery of photos of the tour is available.