MIT Dewey Library Planning

Client: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Role: Planning

Status: Completed

Fact: Through relatively simple suggestions, such as the utilization of compact shelving and consolidation of office spaces, map-lab was able to increase square footage of study and computer areas by 60% and create an additional 4,500 SF of additional book storage space without major structural renovations.

The Dewey Library, one of MIT’s five major libraries and the primary library serving MIT’s Sloan School of Management, wanted to “increase overall capacity and offer more services” to the community it serves. Working closely with MIT staff, project management and engineering consultants, map-lab led a study to identify areas of concern and provide possible solutions to help the Library meet its future goals and objectives.

map-lab generated a report proposing space improvements that addressed issues such as handicap accessibility, humidity control, acoustical absorption, and space limitations.

Through relatively simple suggestions, such as the utilization of compact shelving and consolidation of office spaces, map-lab was able to increase square footage of study and computer areas by 60% and create an additional 4,500 SF of additional book storage space without major structural renovations. map-lab’s proposal to preserve the recently renovated circulation desk and center the design around its modern aesthetic demonstrated an attentiveness to design and an interest in protecting the owner’s bottom line.