University of Bridgeport – Wahlstrom Library

Location: Bridgeport, Connecticut
Area: 23,000 Square Feet
Completed: 2008

DESCRIPTION
University of Bridgeport’s Wahlstrom Library is referred to as the “academic and physical heart of the campus”. In 2007, Antinozzi Associates was invited to design the renovations to the library in response to the University’s need to create an Information Commons for the campus. The library remained on the first floor within the existing structure.

FEATURES
The goal and objective of the design was to introduce more desktop computers, create team meeting areas (including Smartboard technology), assign designated areas for laptop use, have self check-out stations for library materials, and walk up email and internet access stations. A circular Research Theatre is included as well.

A café, including lounge areas for relaxing and studying, was designed with acoustical isolation in mind, even though it was located within an open environment. A small art gallery was also incorporated to enhance campus life for the students. Study rooms on the 2nd and 4th floors were also created to compose an all-inclusive learning environment.