Boatwright makeover

In May, crews began a significant renovation and expansion project that will transform Boatwright Memorial Library as an intellectual and community center on campus.

The renovation will create an enclosed atrium with inviting study spaces and increased natural light on the side of the library that faces Westhampton Lake. It will also make the building more accessible from the lake level and improve access to key spaces within the library, including the Book Arts Studio and the Lora Robins Gallery.

The library’s existing café, 8:15 at Boatwright, will relocate to the new atrium area and expand as an enjoyable space for members of the campus community to gather. The library will also become more accessible from the lake level.

The library has undergone several improvements over the past few years. The current renovation began in May 2023 and is scheduled to be completed in spring 2025. It adds 7,500 square feet, increasing the library’s total square footage to 172,200.

The project also includes planning space within the library to prepare for the future home of the new Carole and Marcus Weinstein Learning Center, a center that will focus on academic support for students. The center is funded by a $25 million gift from the Weinsteins — the second-largest single gift in Richmond’s history.