The renovation of the Booth Family Center for Special Collections completely renovated and expanded the Center. Primary features of the project included:
- Adding 1,200 square feet of space that previously held general collection stacks, bringing the Center to 9,200 square feet total.
- Moving the Center’s entrance to a more prominent location along the main floor walkway.
- Creating a new, dedicated Special Collections classroom designed specifically for teaching with rare and fragile primary resources.
- Enhancing the Reading Room to create a more comfortable and secure space for researchers to examine items.
- Adding a new, separate reception area.
- Restructuring staff and processing space to be more comfortable and efficient.
- Creating a separate, environmentally-controlled shelving area and vault.
- Refurbishing the HVAC systems so that the staff and shelving areas are separately administered, creating optimal conditions for both people and items.
- Updating the Center’s security systems to protect the Library’s treasures.
- Improving the Center’s exhibition spaces with new cases, lighting and more.
The renovation of the Booth Family Center for Special Collections was designed by Bowie Gridley Architects, a Georgetown-based firm that specializes in community spaces. Bowie Gridley also participated in the Library’s Master Space Plan in 2009 and their portfolio includes Georgetown Day School and projects at the University of Virginia. To learn more about Bowie Gridley, visit their website.
Construction on this project was led by Manhattan Construction, a national construction firm. Some of Manhattan’s past projects include the Bush Presidential Library Complex in College Station, Texas; projects at George Mason University; and the US Capitol Visitor Center. To learn more about Manhattan, visit their website.