Robert L. Bogomolny Library

The comprehensive modernization of the Robert L. Bogomolny Library reimagines a 58,000-square-foot building from the mid-1960s as a dynamic center for research, collaboration, and student life. Situated at the prominent intersection of Maryland Avenue and Oliver Street—within sight of Penn Station and several campus landmarks—the revitalized library preserves the character of its original “floating box” massing while introducing flexible spaces that support today’s technology-driven modes of learning.

Mueller Associates once again collaborated with Behnisch Architekten following the success of the award-winning Angelos Law Center. The project required extensive upgrades to remedy aging mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems while creating adaptable, light-filled environments for study, library operations, archival needs, and special events.

A New Glass Hall Bringing Light, Circulation, and Connectivity

A major component of the renovation involved converting the former auditorium site into a full-height Glass Hall—an angular, contemporary addition that both contrasts with and complements the original structure. The Glass Hall establishes a new western entrance along Oliver Street, strengthens pedestrian links across campus, and forms a vibrant urban plaza at its base.

Inside, the Glass Hall transforms circulation and user experience. It introduces daylight deep into the original floor plate, frames new views across the city, and provides open perches for informal study and collaboration. Throughout the building, extensive interior glazing and transparent partitions further increase visibility, social interaction, and access to natural light.

Program spaces were reorganized to protect printed materials by placing stacks away from perimeter glazing and reserving the daylight-rich areas for regularly occupied spaces such as offices, lounges, study rooms, and flexible learning zones. The strategy maintains the integrity of the original two-way waffle slab and minimizes intrusive structural modifications.

MEP Engineering Enhancing Comfort, Flexibility, and Energy Performance

Mueller designed and modernized the building’s mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems to meet contemporary expectations for comfort, operational efficiency, and technological capability. The engineering scope addressed significant system deficiencies in the 1965 facility and included:

• New HVAC systems engineered for improved thermal comfort and energy performance

• Upgraded electrical infrastructure supporting technology-rich study spaces and expanded library operations

• Improved lighting and lighting controls designed to balance user comfort and energy efficiency

• Reconfigured mechanical systems that respond to updated space layouts, increased transparency, and the introduction of the Glass Hall

• MEP strategies that align with the university’s sustainability goals and modern building performance standards

The resulting library preserves the architectural legacy of the original building while delivering a versatile, forward-looking environment that supports digital scholarship, collaborative learning, and the evolving role of academic libraries.