The library is currently offering samples of the furniture which may be installed in the facility as part of the upcoming renovation. Stop by,  test the seating and tables, then share your impressions with us. Help us make the space work for you.

The plan for the new Harrell HSL is still in the design phase. Planning began in earnest in mid-2014 after approval by Penn State Hershey senior leadership in order to bring to fruition a new library space as described in the Facilities Master Plan. The redesign is focused on the current footprint of the first floor Library and allows us to future-proof the library and provide both quiet and collaborative study areas.

A library renovation has been part of the Penn State Hershey Facilities Master Plan for a number of years. Advance planning included interviews with students, faculty, and educational leadership plus focus groups, an in-depth use assessment of our current space, and on-the-spot interviews with library users. We also reviewed recent renovations and new installations of health sciences libraries throughout the country. Medical and graduate students were surveyed and invited to attend question and answer/information and idea gathering sessions. Senior leadership of the institution and the Library Advisory Committee (a standing committee of the Penn State Hershey Faculty Organization) were consulted. A Senior Planning Committee consisting of Penn State Hershey students, faculty, and leadership was convened and provided input and oversight throughout the process.

Construction will occur in phases with no interruption to access to online library resources. Features of the new design will include:

A single service point combining information, circulation, and IT helpdesk support

10-12 technology-rich, flexible study rooms

One-Button Studio for recording presentations

Technology Sandbox for exploring emerging technologies for research and education, including 3-D printing

Upgraded lighting, technology, and electrical infrastructure

Decreased footprint of on-site print collections in order to gain additional floor space

New entrance at the rear of the library to allow access from BMR and cafeteria courtyard with new staircase to second floor near the entrance

Deliberately designed quiet and collaborative study areas with flexible furniture

Office wing for library faculty and staff

Multi-use flexible social / lounge areas with a variety of furniture types and configurations

Display area for History of Medicine print collection

24-hour access with ID badge

The architectural firm, HBM based in Cleveland, offered an updated view of the Library showing a draft of the layout they expect to implement. We are still in the design phase and have not selected furniture so the final plan may differ from that which is presented here.