This past summer, Blommer Science Library underwent one of the most significant updates in its six-decade history, introducing upgraded computers and computing stations for library patrons and a new dedicated study area for Georgetown graduate students.
The renovation of the library, located on the third floor of the Reiss Science Building, began in June 2026 and was completed on August 18, ahead of the start of the fall semester.
“Blommer has long been an important campus resource for scientific inquiry, research, and learning, and this renovation gave us an opportunity to think intentionally about how the space can better serve our community today,” said Alexia Hudson-Ward, Dean of the Library and University Librarian. “The redevelopment of Blommer is also part of our broader commitment to thoughtfully evolving library spaces across Georgetown to support how our students, faculty, and staff learn, work, and create.”
The library’s redevelopment was informed by feedback from undergraduate and graduate students and faculty and focused on making better use of existing library space. The project added 10 new high-performance computers and 10 computing stations equipped with docking hardware and monitors in an area intended primarily for undergraduate use.
A revitalized section of the library now provides dedicated study space for graduate students, including reservable study rooms as well as quiet areas for individual and collaborative work. The library is also launching a pilot program in the new Graduate Student Study Lounge featuring a high-performance computer and a separate computing station equipped with a large high-definition monitor and docking hardware.
“Feedback from the people who use Blommer helped shape how we approached these spaces,” Hudson-Ward said. “We wanted to respond to the different ways undergraduate and graduate students study and conduct their work while also expanding access to the technology that supports teaching, research, and discovery. I am especially pleased that these improvements give our community more choices in how they use Blommer and the resources available to them.”
Blommer Science Library’s redesign follows the expansion and renovation of the Pierce Reading Room, which reopened on January 7th with dramatically expanded study space, modern furnishings, and a state-of-the-art digital lab and video wall.
The renovated Blommer Science Library, showing the graduate student lounge on the left and the computing area on the right.