University Libraries personnel are excited to announce a variety of new spaces and services that will be available on Levels 1 and 2 of Mullins Library once the renovation is completed.
“The renovations of Levels 1 and 2 of Mullins Library will continue throughout the fall semester,” said Jason Battles, dean of libraries. “We are excited to welcome everyone to these spaces where our campus community can not only study, teach and do research but build skills with new maker technologies, record music and podcasts, and interact in immersive VR/AR spaces and a Visualization Lab. Our wonderful collections will be on display as well in a new Special Collections space with a classroom and exhibit gallery. Of course, we know campus is interested in Fowler’s Nook café, which will be located on the south side of Level 1 with an exterior patio attached!”
Augmented/Virtual Reality Lab
The renovated library will include an immersive and collaborative environment for augmented and virtual reality.
“Faculty members have begun using these technologies in courses and programs across campus,” Battles said. “As the central academic hub of the U of A, our AR/VR lab, makerspace and video/audio production offerings will be the most accessible spaces for such technologies and available to students, faculty and staff of all disciplines.”
Data Visualization
This reservable space features a 180-degree, floor-to-ceiling screen driven by four 4K projectors creating a large, immersive experience for classes of up to 25 people. This space can be used by a variety of disciplines, from astronomy to architecture.
Event Space
Colleges and units will again have large spaces available for various events, small conferences and performances. This includes a 2,500-square-foot event space with a catering kitchen and seating for 125-150 that can be configured for nearly any need. The event space will become available for reservation during the spring 2025 semester.
Fowler’s Nook Café
The campus community has already expressed excitement about the inclusion of a café on Level 1 of Mullins, which was announced in October 2021. Funded in part by a generous gift from Chris Fowler, Fowler’s Nook will offer fresh, healthy food and beverage options.
Before the renovation, all Mullins Library entrances were on Level 2. Work has already begun to create an entrance on the south side of Level 1, which will provide natural lighting to the floor and allow for the inclusion of an outdoor patio space adjacent to the café.
“Students will have access to different food options and beverages while they study without having to leave the library,” Battles said. “This will provide a more encompassing environment that saves them time and prevents the need to search for another study spot upon returning to the building.”
Makerspace
A new makerspace will provide highly interactive, hands-on teaching and learning experiences and will include technologies such as 3D printers and scanners, sewing machines, and vinyl and laser cutters.
Recording Studio Suite
Spaces and equipment for professional audio and video recording will be made available by reservation. These spaces will allow the campus community to record music, presentations, lecture slides, videos, interviews, oral history projects and more. The Recording Studio Suite will include a control room, audio recording studio, video recording studio and podcast recording booths. It will also feature a Steinway baby grand piano.
Upgrades to Special Collections
The libraries’ Special Collections Division houses rare and unique materials and makes them available to researchers worldwide. After the renovation, Special Collections will have a new reading room, dedicated classroom space, a modern processing and preservation area and an expansive exhibit gallery. Arkansas Folk and Traditional Arts, a statewide program within the division, will have dedicated offices and a space for recording oral histories.
“As construction continues, we will keep the campus community updated on the progress we are making,” Battles said. “We are committed to transparency and will make an announcement as soon as an opening date is set. We can’t wait for everyone to be able to experience these exciting new amenities.”