The popular Commons at the John C. Hodges Library will soon undergo a major renovation. The Commons, which encompasses the second floor of the library, features the latest technology, group study areas, an inviting setting, and round-the-clock hours that make it one of the most intensely used study spaces on campus.

Renovations will begin immediately following final exams for Spring Semester 2012 and continue for several months.

This major construction project on the busiest floor of the campus’s main library will inevitably entail some noise, dust, and temporary relocation of services. However, renovations will be done in stages for the least disruption.

The pay-off for some temporary inconvenience will be an updated facility that integrates the Studio and provides more group study spaces, more natural light, and new mediascape furniture (technology-enabled collaborative workspaces). Services will be better organized, grouping academic consulting in one area and all equipment checkout at a single service point. The Libraries’ Research Assistance desk will relocate to a highly visible spot just inside the main entrance to the library.

Watch for updates on the Commons construction project at conezone.utk.edu.