Deering renovation to improve accessibility of interior spaces

Work to reimagine prominent public spaces at Deering Library began in earnest last summer. In addition to restored woodwork, new furniture, and upgraded technology, the plans will make the building accessible to the entire campus community.

Most notably, a new elevator in the south wing will connect all three floors in a more visitor-friendly way. Just off the entrance lobby, the elevator will provide faster transport to collections on the third floor and to renovated restrooms.

Next to the elevator, Deering 208 (the former Music Listening Center) will be reconfigured as a reading room that can be quickly converted into a technology-enabled event space for the campus community. Already playing these dual roles, Deering 208 is in high demand as a meeting space; the renovation will improve its resources and technology for events while adding a new exit to improve fire safety.

And in the beloved Eloise W. Martin Reading Room, home of the art collection, all nonoriginal, freestanding bookshelves will be removed to create space for more seating.

The Deering Library renovation is funded entirely by philanthropic gifts, including lead contributions from Leslie Cameron Devereaux ’64; Peter ’60 and Joan McKee ’03 P, ’06 P ’27 GP, Sandi L. Riggs ’65; Stephen M. Strachan ’17 P; and the Northwestern University Libraries Board of Governors.

“This renovation would not have been possible without the support of our dedicated donors,” said Xuemao Wang, dean of libraries and Charles Deering McCormick University Librarian. “They share our vision for creating a space where campus and community can work together across disciplines and that is accessible to all.”

Deering Library is closed to the public during construction, which is expected to conclude in September 2025. Follow project updates at libraries.nu/deering.