Prior to modernization, North Central College’s Oesterle Library lacked student study space. Introducing new spaces to support collaborative study was a key design element throughout the project. New study areas include study pods for individuals and group study rooms equipped with projectors and computers.

In addition, more student services such as the Writing Center, Speaking Center, Career Development, and Student Advising and Success, are now located in the Oesterle Library.

While the existing library qualified as ADA accessible with a ramp, elevator, and push buttons at the front door, accessibility challenges remained prior to renovation. The inclusion of a new elevator provides accessibility to students with larger wheelchairs and service animals. It also assists librarians in having more room to transport books.

The resulting project provides a re-freshed interior with an abundance of natural light, consolidating the library collection while providing new student activity and support spaces, and better accessibility.