Dare to discover
The Libraries
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Wilmington, NC
The renovation and expansion of The Libraries at the University of North Carolina Wilmington reimagines the library as a future-ready, immersive learning experience.
As a public university with deep ties to its region, UNCW sought to create a flexible, inclusive, and technology-rich environment that could adapt to evolving academic needs while inviting deeper engagement with the broader Wilmington community. Shepley Bulfinch led interior architecture and programming in close partnership with LS3P, who led exterior design. The result transforms the existing Randall Library and introduces Discovery Hall.
Our concept centered on creating a vibrant, layered experience that supports diverse modes of learning. We identified areas with the most natural light and which zones best supported quiet respite. Vibrant, active zones were designed with large windows and open layouts to maximize daylight, while quieter areas were equipped with sound-absorbing materials and soft furnishings to create a calm atmosphere.
A double-height glass plaza seamlessly connects the interior and exterior of the library. From the outside, visitors can see the layering of activity within, as students, faculty, and the Wilmington community engage with the space. The plaza’s design floods the interior with natural light, creating a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
The integration of new amenities such as the Makerspace and Visualization Wall are pivotal in transforming the Randall Library into a dynamic 21st-century hub for learning and collaboration. The Makerspace, equipped with cutting-edge tools and technology, serves as an innovation epicenter, fostering creativity and hands-on learning. Similarly, the Visualization Wall, a large interactive display, revolutionizes the way data is presented and understood. By transforming complex information into immersive visual experiences, it allows users to engage with data in a more intuitive and impactful way, facilitating deeper insights and more effective teamwork.
Equity and inclusion were embedded through universally accessible spaces and diverse study environments that serve a wide range of needs. The Makerspace and Visualization Wall embodies this ethos, offering hands-on learning and intuitive data interaction, empowering users of all backgrounds to engage with complex information. The expanded archives center affirms the library’s role as a cultural and educational resource. Sustainable strategies—including adaptive reuse, daylighting, and flexible infrastructure—reinforce the project’s climate resiliency and long-term value.