These spaces now need major attention if they are to provide the levels of usefulness and appeal essential for support of the university s academic programs. We have identified five goals that address the range of space needs across the Perkins system. It is complex in layout, difficult to navigate and use, outdated in terms of technological infrastructure, and inadequate with respect to study and training spaces. Perkins has the potential, however, to serve as a center for intellectual life on West Campus and to provide spaces that are esthetically engaging and memorable as well as useful and convenient. The university should proceed immediately with renovation of the building, using a phased approach to minimize disruption of library services.
Strategies Develop a building program for the renovation .
A Renovation Committee has been appointed and an architectural firm selected for initial planning of the Perkins project. Throughout this process the committee should consult with the Library Council, the Library Advisory Board, Duke Student Government, the Graduate and Professional Student Council, the Academic Priorities Committee, the President s Advisory Committee on Resources, and the library staff so that the building program has widespread support. Identify a new location for technical services operations and create a well-designed facility for them . Working with the architects and possibly other consultants, the library staff and administration need to determine options for relocation of the Technical Services operations off the first floor of Perkins Library and decide which option the library will implement. A healthy, pleasant, ergonomically designed and efficient workspace for Technical Services should be provided in the new location.