A grand staircase, central borrowing area and vaulted ceiling will be the centerpieces of the newly remodeled lobby of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Library when the project is completed in May.

Work has begun on a state-funded $430,000 project that will create a more functional and inviting University Library, said its director, Arne Arneson. In the works since 1988, the project was approved by UW System in 2001 and paid for through the State Capital Improvement Fund.

The remodeling will improve security for the library�s collection, make for a more efficient work and traffic flow and create an inviting area for library users to relax, read and meet friends, he said.

The plans, created by architect Ron Howard and Associates, bring circulation, reserves and interlibrary loan together at a single, more visible service point. Barrier free gates will replace the turnstiles at the west and east entrances, improving accessibility. Each entrance will have new glass entry doors. A staircase on the east side will connect the first and second floors, and a vaulted, barrel ceiling on the second floor will open space in the central atrium area, Arneson said.

"We�re merging the service areas to create more efficient borrowing for our users," he said, "trying to create a one-stop area to check out materials, while creating a more attractive environment. We�re making it a more pleasant place to be."

Security was an important factor in the remodel, Arneson said, with thousands of books lost over the years. "This will give us a more secure environment for the collection," he said.

The library�s service areas and the Natural History Museum are remaining open during construction. While the east entrance and pedestrian ramps will be closed until mid-May, library visitors may use the west doors and ramps adjacent to the Specht Forum/Sundial.

Circulation and reserve services have been relocated to the current Reserves Department, located on the west side of the first floor. A mobile circulation desk is available in the lobby to direct visitors. Interlibrary Loan has been temporarily relocated to the fourth floor in Room 430.

Because of the construction during the spring months, the library will be unable to hold its activities for UWSP�s bi-annual open house on Sunday, April 7. Open house activities will continue at other campus locations.

For more information and drawings of the remodeling plans, see the Internet at http://library.uwsp.edu/news/lobby.htm.

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