Fairmont State University– Ruth Ann Musick Library
The Fairmont State University Library renovation and expansion responded to the university’s continued growth and the changing academic needs of its students. As enrollment and academic programs expanded, the existing 52,000-square-foot library could no longer provide the collection, technology, study, and gathering spaces needed to adequately serve the campus community.
OMNI Associates – Architects developed a design that expanded the library by approximately 5,000 square feet while rethinking how students accessed and used the facility. A key component of the project was relocating the main entrance from the second floor to the first floor, creating a more accessible and welcoming point of entry.
The expansion of the Fairmont State University Library introduced additional student-focused spaces, including a café and lounge area, technology support services, printing and copying resources, and upgraded multimedia classroom areas. Together, these improvements created a more functional academic environment with additional space for studying, collaboration, technology, and student services.
Beyond improvements to the library itself, the project played an important role in addressing accessibility across Fairmont State University’s campus. With approximately 300 feet of elevation change between Locust Avenue and the football field, navigating the campus presented significant challenges for creating accessible routes between facilities.
Through careful site and circulation planning, OMNI incorporated the library improvements into a broader strategy for improving access to the academic core. The design provided accessible, ground-level connections to the primary academic buildings and helped establish more convenient routes through campus.
The completed project transformed the library into a more welcoming and adaptable academic resource while also improving connections across the university. By addressing learning environments, technology, student services, and accessibility together, the renovation and expansion helped the facility better support the evolving needs of Fairmont State University and its students.
Download Spec Sheet
