Renovation marches on as key pieces are put into place

By Amber Lautigar Reichert | December 13, 2022

A massive crane lifts a metal structure up and over a rectangular building which is partially under construction
UVA photographer Dan Addison captured exciting moments in October, as a crew installed massive skylights over the new library’s indoor atria.

 
The UVA Library inhabits more than five locations, including Brown Science and Engineering Library, Clemons Library, Fine Arts Library, Music Library, and Harrison/Small Special Collections Library; plus professional libraries like Health Sciences, Darden, and Law. The main library, Alderman, was closed in early 2020 for renovation, and work continues apace as staff members prepare to move into the space (along with books and services) in late 2023 and early 2024.

In October, massive skylight frames were lifted into the historic lightwells, which will allow the new library to feature weather-protected study space under open skies.

A few of a building from above. Faceted windows in sunken openings are visible.
Skylight-topped study space, as viewed from above. Photo credit: Skanska.


This summer, a beam signed by construction personnel and Library staff was hoisted to the top of the building as part of a “topping-out ceremony” marking installation of the highest point in the new building.

A person in a hard hat pulls a rope tied to a large white beam with varied handwriting all over it
A worker lowers the beam onto the new building’s roof. Photo credit: Sanjay Suchak, University Communications.


Read more individual stories about the renovation from UVA Today or Library Communications, or read about the renovation on the Library’s website.