Chicago Construction News staff writer
The University of Illinois Springfield has broken ground on a $42.5 million Library Commons, a three-story, 52,000-square-foot facility designed to bring key student services under one roof.
The general contractor for the project is Henson Robinson Company, a Springfield-based firm experienced in commercial construction. Subcontractors include E.L. Pruitt Mechanical Contractors, responsible for the HVAC systems.
The Sept. 19 ceremony marked the start of construction on the building, which will sit on the campus quad between the Student Union and the Health Sciences Building.
Earlier this month UIS reported that drilled piers have been completed and work on the foundation system is underway. Beam installation is visible this month, and the elevator shaft and building outlines are beginning to take shape.
Funded by the state of Illinois, the Library Commons will house the university’s library, the Center for Academic Success and Advising, the Career Development Center and Information Technology Services.
“This project marks a bold step forward in reimagining how our campus spaces can support student learning, engagement and success,” Chancellor Janet L. Gooch said in a statement. “The Library Commons will be much more than a place to check out books.”
Plans call for group and individual study areas, computer stations, open seating and a large classroom that seats more than 100 students. UIS leaders say students will be able to access advising, career counseling and tutoring in the same building.
Funded by the state of Illinois, the Library Commons will house the university’s library, the Center for Academic Success and Advising, the Career Development Center and Information Technology Services.
“This project marks a bold step forward in reimagining how our campus spaces can support student learning, engagement and success,” Chancellor Janet L. Gooch said in a statement. “The Library Commons will be much more than a place to check out books.”
Plans call for group and individual study areas, computer stations, open seating and a large classroom that seats more than 100 students. UIS leaders say students will be able to access advising, career counseling and tutoring in the same building.
UIS Student Government Association president Jazel Ware-Grant said the project represents more than just a place to study. “This can represent opportunity, support and connection,” she said.
The university says the project also reflects its sustainability goals. The building is being designed to meet LEED Gold certification standards for energy efficiency, designed to meet LEED Gold certification standards for sustainability. It is scheduled to open in fall 2027.
