FEBRUARY 11, 2022 — Crews have begun work on the “Heart of the Campus” project—a reimagination of the third of the John Peace Library.
During the first phase of the construction project, crews will replace large concrete panels on the north and south portions of the building with large floor-to-ceiling window panels.
“We know from user research that the library is an essential component of the college experience, and we’re hoping to make it brighter and better,” said Dean Hendrix, dean of UTSA Libraries. “The project will allow us to create inspirational spaces that will encourage more collaboration, innovation and discovery for our students and for the research community.”
The window project will close the third floor during the spring 2022 semester. Adapting to the construction, students may access new study spaces on the fourth floor, which were converted from staff offices and cubicles.
“The pandemic inspired us to be creative and adaptable when it comes to library spaces,” Hendrix said. “On the JPL fourth floor, we consolidated staff space and freed up 6,000 square feet for student quiet study space and collaboration areas.”
Late spring semester, crews should complete the third-floor window installation. The project will create construction noise as crews cut and remove the concrete panels. Those using the library may request noise-cancelling ear plugs at the front desk.
“We ask for your patience as we work to improve the library experience,” Hendrix said. “Our staff will be more than happy to assist with item retrieval, space needs and with source material research. We encourage you to continue reaching out to our staff for help.”
The Libraries’ most highly used services—including remote access to databases, e-journals, e-book and streaming media, Ask Us Anything reference service, Get It for Me delivery service and librarian consultations—will continue to support the UTSA community. Additionally, several individual and group study rooms will be available on the second floor along with those on the fourth floor.
During construction, browsing will be suspended on the third floor of the JPL, but there are several options to borrow books:
- In-person: Request an item from library staff at the front desk of the JPL. Look for Get It for Me signage.
- Curbside delivery: Request an item using the Get It for Me system on the library website, and pick it up near the drive-up book drops at the JPL or DTL. Select your preferred location when requesting the item.
- Locker delivery: Request an item using the Get It for Me system on the library website and choose locker pickup. Lockers are located at the entrances of JPL and DTL. Select your preferred location when requesting the item.
For a full list of library hours and available services, visit lib.utsa.edu/hours.
The UTSA Libraries are at the forefront of reimagining the 21st-century academic library. With four locations across three campuses, the libraries are fueling UTSA’s ascent to a premier public research university by providing students and faculty with seamless, comprehensive access to information and learning resources as well as innovative spaces for active learning and interdisciplinary scholarship.