Major gift propels library renovation

he Gleason Foundation's gift of $500,000 will allow for the complete renovation this summer of the Great Hall of Rush Rhees Library. Plans call for the completion of the room by Sesquicentennial Weekend, October 12-15. A number of special events will be held in the room, including an exhibit on the University's history.

Artist's rendering of the Great Hall

The Great Hall is one of three historic "grand old rooms" of Rush Rhees Library and features intricate inlaid woodworking incorporated into the paneled oak walls. Referred to as the "Delivery Room" in the original architectural plans, this large room housed the circulation and card catalog for nearly 40 years. With the expansion of the library in the early 1970s, these functions were moved to the first floor and the room was renamed the Great Hall.

As part of this summer's renovation, the effect of the skylight formerly located in the ceiling will be recreated; the artwork in the design of the ceiling will be restored; a new tile floor and acoustical panels to improve sound quality will be installed; and custom-made exhibit cases will be added. Displayed prominently around the perimeter of the room and in the adjoining hallway will be large oil portraits of various individuals who have played a role in the University's history and development over the past 150 years.

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