Library and Student Resource Center Construction Update

Albertson Hall (the former UWSP library) has been closed to the public and under construction since May 2022, with plans to reopen in spring 2026. The new building will be named The Library and Student Resource Center and aims to create an accessible, sustainable and flexible environment. 

The construction timeline has changed frequently over the past two and a half years. With delayed demolition, the project’s original completion date was postponed. 

Last year’s mild winter helped the construction team fast-track progress, and the current tools-down date is July 2025. This date is not set, as various factors may impact the project. 

Greg Marsicek, director of facilities planning, said, “We have been making good progress. [The construction team] is running pretty well ahead of schedule and trying to bring us back to the original completion date.” 

Gretel Stock, Dean of the University College, describes the new building as a one-stop shop. Stock said, “We really wanted this to be an open and welcoming space, where you walk in, and one thing is on your right and one thing is on your left; it’s all there in front of you.” 

The TLC, DRC, student advising, international education, and IT desk will be on the first floor, which will be named Albertson Commons. 

In addition, the building will feature the archives, administrative offices, the office of the registrar, student financial services and financial aid. 

With students and student wellness in mind, there will be single study rooms, meditation spaces and a 24/7 study lounge. 

The 24-hour lounge will have vending machines, bathrooms, private study spaces and will be accessible through a student ID. This feature of the new building was heavily advocated for by the SGA. 

“It is going to be a very nice building that, from an environmental and energy standpoint, will be better than most,” Marsicek said.  

The building will have two green roofs, which are small flat patches of vegetation that will lower energy costs as well as absorb storm water and heat. 

There will be bird collision deterrence on windows as well. Small divests on the outside of the windows will discourage birds from flying into them.  

 This space will use 40% less energy than similar buildings. Additionally, the trees outside of the former Albertson Hall were locally processed and will be featured in the building. 

The space is built to last, with an ideal focus on adapting to the next 20 to 30 years of education. 

Dean Stock is excited to see the student body together again in a space she remembers fondly from her time as a student. 

The iconic sundial is returning and will be incorporated into the building’s design. To improve accessibility, the sundial will be completely flat. It will also offer plenty of greenery and space for students. 

 “I’m really looking forward to seeing students altogether again,” Stock said.  

As construction continues, anticipation builds for the opening of The Library and Student Resource Center.

Gwendolyn Pabich 

News Reporter 

[email protected]