BRICK REPLACEMENT & WATERPROOFING PROJECT
Successfully Completed Spring 2008

View of John B. Coleman Library's front entrance during the Brick project
The Library Maintain regular hours during the entire project

The John B. Coleman Library has recently completed a phase of its projected renovation plan, both inside and outside. From new external bricks and irrigation, to internal paint and carpet, the library is both more efficient and aesthetically pleasing.

Built in 1988, the Library began experiencing minor leaks and water damage around 2005 that continued for several years. The interior of the library sustained minor damage, including the art gallery, located on the fourth floor. To preserve the contents, the gallery was temporary relocated to the first floor of the Library.

According to Dr. Rosie Albritton, Director of University Library Services, "concerns arose that if the water damages weren't repaired potentially hazardous conditions could occur such as falling bricks and the development of mold spores. We have contacted the environmental department and are currently awaiting the results of mold and hazard testing, "said Dr. Albritton.

"The sooner the better," added Helen Yeh, Associate Director of the Library."Since the Library was first built in 1988, there has been a water leakage problem because the building was constructed without a waterproofing layer beneath the bricks."

In time, the continued leaks led to the erosion of bricks and deterioration of the building conditions. This meant that a more substantial renovation project needed to be implemented; more than replacement and patching. The library exterior, as well as interior bricks were replaced and waterproofed to prevent future damage and to protect against hazardous weather conditions. Students, faculty and staff were routed through construction tunnels during for most of as every external brick was removed, waterproofing installed, and new bricks were put in place.

Including in the renovation plan is an entirely new irrigation system. The new irrigation system will channel rain water to flow into the new drainage route and eliminate the muddy region between the Library and University College.

As can be expected, such major renovations are costly. Dr. Albritton stated, "The funding for this project was appropriated by the state and designated to our lead campus, Texas A&M University. A&M is in charge of coordinating this project as well as working with contractors.” The entire $3 million project was completed during the spring of 2008. 

Sources: 
The Panther 9/19/2007 - $3M Library project close to completion
The Panther 3/17/2007 Library undergoes renovations

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