davis library

Since Davis Hall’s transition from campus library in the early 70’s, the building has provided a variety of functions. These have included the campus student center, and most recently, a dance rehearsal space and office swing space, but has been largely underutilized in recent years.

The renovation seeks to reposition the building so that it is, once again, the heart of the campus building. The renovated building will be completely modernized with new building systems, A/V and technology to support a 21st century learning environment. The building will be served by a geothermal well in the adjacent green. The original stack portion of the building will be structurally reconfigured to accommodate a new egress stair and elevator so the upper level reading room will be fully accessible and with proper egress for the first time in the buildings’ history. The original entrance, entry hall and grand stair will be retained and celebrated with renewed finishes, lighting, and seating. The grand reading room will be restored as one of the premier student gathering and event spaces on campus, complete with new furnishings, acoustic treatment, restored finishes and perimeter display cases designed to showcase highlights of the Philips Exeter community.