MORRIS LIBRARY RENOVATION

The SpecialCollections expansion project in Morris Library at the University of Delaware createsa unified and welcoming signature space for Special Collections thatfacilitates their visibility, public accessibility and use on the second floorof the Morris Library.  The concept is organized to meetthree primary objectives. First, it will consolidate existing SpecialCollections services from their current locations across three differentfloors, together in one place to create a set of new functional and researchsynergies. A reception area, staff offices, workspaces, and consolidatedcollections shelving will have expanded space through strategic operationaladjacencies. Second, the new design will establish a bold new public presencefor public-facing programs, including a Reception area, Exhibition gallery, andReading Room with small group study rooms. Finally, the concept design providesadaptable teaching and learning spaces for SpecialCollections that enable collaborative education and secure, hands-on learningand research with a wide range of Special Collections materials.

PROJECT DATA

Date: 2025-2026
Status: Completed
Client: University of Delaware
Location: Newark, DE
Design Team:
Frano Violich, FAIA; Managing Principal
Sheila Kennedy, FAIA; Principal Consulting on Design
Ned Goodell, AIA; Project Manager
Nick Johnson, AIA; Project Architect
Austin Tsailin, Ben Widger, AIA, Katie Koskey, AIA, Haipeng Lin, Jing Liao,  
Architect: Kennedy & Violich Architecture, Ltd.
Structural, MEP, FP: Buro Happold
Lighting Designer: Tillotson Design Associates
AV Systems Design: Communications Design Associates
Acoustic Consultant: Cavanaugh Tocci Associates
Life Safety, Code, Accessibility: Jensen Hughes
Photographer: KVA