Camden County College, Renovations to Blackwood Library

Blackwood, New Jersey

Firm

The Gibson Tarquini Group

Client

Camden County College

Area

39,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$5,000,000

Completion Date

04/2003

Camden County College embarked on a renovation of the Blackwood Library in an effort to make it a more vibrant destination for students. The fundamental goals of the project were to provide organized space for quiet study and group interaction, revamp the college’s information hub and provide a bridge across interdisciplinary boundaries.
A wood-paneled lobby on the first floor features a serpentine circulation desk and marble flooring. Behind the grand circulation desk is administrative space for the library staff.
The lower level supports the educational program by providing three technology-driven library classrooms. Flexible conference space also is provided on this level for various meetings. The other floors are organized around several reading rooms. Study carrels are distributed evenly on each floor. The third floor open computer lab serves as an extension of the library space, which supports the quiet study areas around it. Changing technology requirements were a major driving force behind the project.
The furniture provides flexible designs to accommodate technology. The goal was to create a warm and exciting environment, leaving the institutional look behind.
The project restores Blackwood Library to its proper role as a tangible community and campus asset.