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The University of California, San Diego completed the $17-million expansion and renovation of the Biomedical Library on its La Jolla, Calif., campus in late spring of 2006. McCarthy Building Companies served as construction manager and general contractor for the project, which entailed the addition of 43,454 sf of space to the existing 32,950-sf library, as well as renovation of the existing structure. Los Angeles-based Pfeiffer Partners was the architect. The facility is the only biomedical research library in San Diego and Imperial Counties and is now able to accommodate more than 4,000 students, faculty, and visitors.

The renovated and expanded library now features a 24-hour graduate study lounge, high density movable shelving, specialized research collaborative areas for semi-private study, research and group study/consultation rooms; networked computer stations and training facilities; and wireless Internet access throughout the building. The existing space was renovated to allow for more natural light, and includes new carpet, paint, light fixtures, and ceiling domes. An open-air walkway through the building also was added, providing a thoroughfare from the south to the north. Constructed of concrete and a steel-braced frame, the three-level library addition features a distinctive cast-in-place pitched roof with a steel core which protrudes eleven feet from the building and slopes upward at a 20-degree angle.