Redesigning Success: Lessons in Multi-Phase Renovation and Student-Centered Spaces

Join us for a thoughtful discussion on the renovation of the John C. Hitt Library at the University of Central Florida. This multi-phase project has significantly transformed the library experience, driving increased visitor numbers and supporting student success. We’ll share key lessons learned from the renovation, focusing on successes, challenges, and insights from library leadership, architects, and furniture specialists.

We’ll explore the benefits and challenges of a phased renovation that allowed the library to remain operational while adapting to students’ evolving needs. Discover how the library is integrating innovative spaces and technology—like the Automated Retrieval Center and Technology Studios—and enhanced functionality through real-time data tracking. A major focus will be on the role of furniture and finishes, which were carefully chosen for durability, practicality, and long-term use. The right furniture choices not only improve the space’s functionality but also enhance the overall library experience, balancing aesthetics, comfort, and resilience.

Attendees will leave with actionable takeaways they can apply to their own library projects, including strategies for balancing collaborative spaces with quiet study areas and designing adaptable, flexible environments. Learn how thoughtful furniture selection, paired with real-world design insights, can shape the future of academic spaces. This session is perfect for anyone interested in library design, transformation, and creating spaces that work for today’s students.