R.P. Bell Library: Centre for Innovation and Learning

The library concept design includes:

• a Universal Design for Learning classroom
• flexible collaboration space to support innovation and entrepreneurship
• a data and digital scholarship lab
• customizable study and gathering spaces

The facility will feature a warm and light-filled ambience with core collections remaining onsite. The newly renovated space will also be fully accessible with upgraded elevators and entrances and all-gender and barrier-free washrooms.

The concept design photos are renderings of the initial vision and direction of design for the R.P. Bell Library Centre for Innovation and Learning. The images displayed do not represent the final finishes such as furniture, fixtures, and colours.

The renovation will follow the Green Globes certification system. Green Globes is a comprehensive, science-based, three-in-one certification system that evaluates the environmental sustainability, health and wellness, and resilience of buildings.

This project will achieve energy and water efficiency, sustainable site development, reduced emissions, and improved indoor environment quality using a variety of design, construction, and operating strategies.

Indigenous faculty, students, and Elders will be consulted throughout the design phase of the project. Additionally, Mount Allison is in the process of identifying an Indigenous design firm to consult on the renovation; further details will be provided as they become available. 

The total project spend is currently estimated at $85 million.

The projected amount includes: 

• R.P. Bell Library Centre for Innovation and Learning revitalization and full renovation 
• Enclosing the breezeway that connects the R.P. Bell Library and Crabtree buildings  
• Renovations to house a portion of collections in the basement of Convocation Hall   
• Construction of the Interim Library  
• Other costs (moving expenses and storage of collections) 

Mount Allison received a transformative $36 million from Infrastructure Canada and the Government of New Brunswick. The Remainder of the project is being funded through a combination of philanthropic support and internal resources.

• Matthew Maston, Interim Vice-President, International and Student Affairs
• Courtney Pringle-Carver, Vice-President, University Advancement
• Robert Inglis, Vice President, Finance and Administration
• Provost and Vice-President, Academic and Research
• Kris Kierstead, Director of Facilities Management
• Dwayne Acton, Manager of Projects, Facilities Management
• Jason MacDonald, Special Projects Coordinator, Libraries & Archives
• Rachel Rubin, Dean of Libraries & Archives, Acting Dean of Arts
• Marcie Meekins, Director of Development, University Advancement
• Alexandra Montana, Communications Officer, University Advancement