This collection, 1966,2001 [bulk 1997-2001], documents the reconstruction of the old Park Library building, and the temporary redesign of Finch Fieldhouse, and the planning and construction of the new addition of the new addition. The collection includes concept and presentation drawings in the following formats: blue-line drawings, drawings on FoamCor Board, artists Renderings, and Vendor Sample Board. These materials were created and used during the design phase and came to the archivist once they were no longer needed by the architects or for promotional reasons. The archivist decided to incorporate the only blue-lines of the old building in the Clarke into the collection for continuity. Also included is a three-dimensional model with wooden base and clear plastic cover, undated [1999-2000]199. The model measures 28x35x8 inches and includes the building, people, cars, trees, sidewalks, and Preston Street. The model is made of cardboard and plastic in red, white, blue, green, brown, and black.
Researchers may also be interested in additional architectural materials documenting the addition which are found in the CMU. Park Library New library collection, 1996-2008, which is also housed in the Clarke Historical Library. This collection includes final drawings, which came to the archivist after re/construction was completed. The collection also documents the open house events and other events held in the new building. Collections documenting the history and functions of the library are also housed in the Clarke.
Organizational History:
The old Park Library building was gutted, resided, and an addition added between 1998 and 2001. During that time staff were split between old Park, Finch Fieldhouse and the turfroom at the Student Activities Center (SAC). The work was done by Greiner and Associates, Grand Rapids, and Christman Construction, Lansing, Michigan. Ground breaking ceremonies for the new Park Library building at Central Michigan University (CMU) were held on April 21, 1999. A decommissioning dinner for the library staff and other CMU staff who worked in the library was held May 7, 1999. An open house for the university community was held on January 9, 2002. Formal dedication of the new building occurred on April 12, 2002.
