By COLLEEN ASHLEY
In May 2023, the Health Sciences Library System (HSLS) introduced the newly designed Falk Library entrance and updated spaces, marking a significant milestone achieved as part of the West Wing construction project in Alan Magee Scaife Hall.
During a subsequent renovation, much of the library was transformed to integrate both innovative features and familiar, beloved library experiences within the physical space. Now, with the library fully reopened, visitors can explore a variety of enhanced services and resources.
Among the new amenities are individual study spaces, complete with study carrels, including areas designated for quiet study. Open group study options also have been expanded, with tables and booths available for collaborative learning.
The library has reintroduced its general collection, medical humanities collection, and leisure reading books, providing a broader range of materials for patrons to enjoy. In addition, the technology offerings have been increased, including areas equipped with accessibility hardware and software for users with specific needs.
Falk Library also will now house the new Health Sciences Emergent Technology Lab, as well as a state-of-the-art recording studio, thanks to a partnership with Health Sciences IT.
The renovation also added more small, reservable consultation rooms, complementing the larger group study rooms already available. The Rare Book Room, featuring rotating displays of historic books and artifacts, will offer extended hours, allowing visitors greater access to these unique materials.
Finally, the new Nancy Tannery Conference Room serves as a modern meeting space, equipped with advanced display technology, while preserving the mid-century finishings from the former history of medicine reading room. The room is named after the former HSLS Senior associate director, who also served as assistant provost before her death in 2021.
The library is located at M722 Alan Magee Scaife Hall, 3550 Terrace St., and is open to students, faculty, staff and researchers in the schools of the health sciences. We are excited to welcome visitors back to the fully updated and reunified Falk Library.
Colleen Ashley is a communications design specialist for the Health Science Library System.