The Robarts Library renovations from 2008 to 2012 were the initial phase of the renewal of the John P. Robarts Research Library.
Phase 1
The first phase of renovations included:
- Expansion and refurbishment of study spaces
- Updating of electronic infrastructure
- Opening of new special collections areas, such as the Map and Data Library and the Media Commons
- Enclosure of Robarts Library porticos, adding additional study spaces
Funding
- Crucial support from Drs. Russell and Katherine Morrison
- Province of Ontario
- University of Toronto Libraries
- Individual donors
Phase 2
The second phase will be the addition of the Robarts Common.
The Robarts Common will:
- Add 1,200 study spaces
- Increase Robarts Library's capacity to 6,000 seats
- Provide 24/7 access to study space during peak times in the academic year
Features
- Five-story free-standing addition to Robarts Library
- Located on the west side of Robarts Library with an entrance on the south end
- Connected to the library by bridges on floors two, three, four and five
- Outdoor square with Wi-Fi access and seating amongst the cherry trees for studying in the warmer months
Funding
- Lead benefactors Drs. Russell and Katherine Morrison
- Over 1,000 individual donors
- The University of Toronto
We began raising funds for the Robarts revitalization in 2008 and donors continue to support the project.