An extensive transformation equipped the historic library with contemporary computer technology, climate control, and accessibility, as well as new classrooms and a humanities commons space.
Opened in 1878, Linderman Library houses more than 300,000 volumes of Lehigh’s Humanities and special collections texts. One of the first academic libraries designed around “modern” library functions, Linderman was not updated since a Reading Room addition in 1929.
Keast & Hood designed all of the structural modifications, including a new steel-frame utility building built two levels below grade on the northeast side of the building and new mechanical penthouses on the tower roofs. The library’s two towers were linked at the fourth floor with a new steel-frame connection. An existing third-floor skylight was infilled, and its framing modified to support the new structure. A glass flooring system in the main lobby was aligned with the skylight’s framing, with backlighting to mimic the effects of the former natural light. Various modifications within the building’s structure incorporated new elevators, code-compliant stairs, and the creation of light wells to brighten the stack areas.
The 72,000-sf project revitalized the 125+ year old library, ensuring future generations of students and the community a state-of-the-art research facility.
An extensive transformation equipped the historic library with contemporary computer technology, climate control, and accessibility, as well as new classrooms and a humanities commons space.
Opened in 1878, Linderman Library houses more than 300,000 volumes of Lehigh’s Humanities and special collections texts. One of the first academic libraries designed around “modern” library functions, Linderman was not updated since a Reading Room addition in 1929.
Keast & Hood designed all of the structural modifications, including a new steel-frame utility building built two levels below grade on the northeast side of the building and new mechanical penthouses on the tower roofs. The library’s two towers were linked at the fourth floor with a new steel-frame connection. An existing third-floor skylight was infilled, and its framing modified to support the new structure. A glass flooring system in the main lobby was aligned with the skylight’s framing, with backlighting to mimic the effects of the former natural light. Various modifications within the building’s structure incorporated new elevators, code-compliant stairs, and the creation of light wells to brighten the stack areas.
The 72,000-sf project revitalized the 125+ year old library, ensuring future generations of students and the community a state-of-the-art research facility.
CLIENT: MGA Partners, Architects
LOCATION: Bethlehem, PA
TYPE: Academic, Historic, Library, SERVICES: Addition, Historic Preservation, Renovation, MATERIALS: Steel, Other, SUSTAINABILITY: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Completed project photography © Barry Halkin
