Payson Library is the cornerstone of Pepperdine University’s student learning community. Built over forty years ago, it was one of the last buildings on the Malibu campus with original building systems, and it required modernization of its physical spaces and infrastructure to remain the “heart of the institution.” The recently completed renovation project imagined a twenty-first century learning-living environment, with a more intuitive and progressive user-friendly educational and social experience, and delivered a destination far exceeding the university community expectations and setting the standard for campus space development.

Focusing on the transformational trend of library spaces and new student uses, the University updated the library’s interior design to emphasize openness and collaboration. We reduced the on-site books by half, removed interior walls and broadened the entryway, utilized glass walls to capture natural light, and created intimate learning environments. Among a long list of creative enhancements, the library now includes expanded and varied study areas (soft seating, historic tables, a learning commons, individual study carrels, and triple the number of study rooms), upgrades to the special collections and archives spaces, a centralized student academic assistance center, a maker lab, event and classroom spaces, fireplaces, a patio, and a Starbucks store.

With minor library exterior adjustments, exchanging some rectilinear lines in favor of rounded arches and adding dark wood accents, we brought it more in line with the institution’s architectural touchstone – a modern interpretation of Mediterranean and Spanish Revival styles. By capturing the warm interior lighting, and removing cement structures previously obscuring the view from floor to ceiling windows, the building embraces its position in the surrounding courtyard and fully takes advantage of gorgeous ocean views.

The infrastructure overhaul included upgrade of the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, security, fire/life safety, HVAC, and internet and audio/visual systems, as well as installation of a new roof.

The new library’s influence on the University community is remarkable. Beyond transforming the learning environment, it has become the preferred gathering space for students, faculty, and staff, and its use has skyrocketed. Perhaps its impact can be best captured this way: As the President was addressing the undergraduate students a week into the new fall semester, he was discussing many exciting things happening at the opening of the academic year. When he mentioned the newly re-opened library, the crowd broke into spontaneous applause. When was the last time 18-22 year-olds celebrated the opening of a library? Mission accomplished…