C.V. Starr East Asian Library Renovation
What is Happening
Beginning in early April, Facilities and Operations will commence a renovation of the C.V. Starr East Asian Library on the 300 level of Kent Hall to restore the historic decorative plaster ceiling. The project also will include other improvements such as new group study rooms, new accessible lobby entrance doors, a new circulation desk, new and refurbished dimmable lighting, carpet replacement in the reading room, new furniture, and a restoration of the historic stained-glass window. This will be the first renovation of the C.V. Starr East Asian Library since 2009.
Project Activities
The project will be performed in one continuous phase. The specific scope of work will include:
- General demolition and localized framing
- Installation of the new plaster ceiling
- New lighting, electrical, security, IT, audio visual and fire life safety systems
- New furniture and finishes
What to Expect
The following conditions and potential impacts are anticipated during the course of the project:
- Work will be focused on the 300 and 300M levels, with some targeted work taking place on the 200 and 400 levels.
- The project’s construction work will create disruptions typically associated with construction projects, including some intermittent noise and vibrations. Dust will be confined to the project space.
- The project's general contractor will perform notably disruptive work after hours. This work will be communicated to affected occupant groups in advance. Most disruptive work will occur early in the project between April 2026 to September 2026.
- Floor protection will be installed in common spaces along the path of travel for deliveries and personnel. Public spaces will be cleaned daily.
- Temporary utility shutdowns will be scheduled to minimize disruption and will be coordinated and communicated in advance.
- A construction barrier at the Starr Library entrance will be installed in the building lobby of Kent Hall for the duration of the project.
Please note this work is subject to change based on field conditions and other external factors.
Schedule
Regular work hours are 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. After-hours work will be needed, specifically for disruptive work occurring between April 2026 to September 2026. This project is anticipated to be completed in June 2027.
Project Communications
During the course of the project, the project team will provide regular project updates to preview the work that will be happening, which will be posted on this project web page.