EMU Today

YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University’s Bruce T. Halle Library is undergoing a significant transformation this spring and summer, made possible by a generous donation from the Diane & Bruce Halle Foundation. This substantial contribution will fund the creation of new, innovative spaces to enhance student support, foster collaboration across the campus, and strengthen community engagement. Work began in May and is scheduled to be completed in mid-August 2024. 

Rhonda Fowler, university librarian, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, "Everything will be designed to meet student needs. We are creating a space that draws people into the library and opens up more possibilities for collaboration."

The main floor will be redeveloped into a modern information commons featuring an updated Academic Projects Center, a new gallery, and the relocation of the Civil Rights & Social Justice Center and the Center for Jewish Studies from other buildings on campus. The Holman Success Center, Faculty Development Center, University Writing Center, and Academic Projects Center will continue to operate on the redesigned first floor of the library.

The University Archives and Oral History Program will move to the first floor for increased visibility and accessibility, while a new faculty publication reading room will be established on the second floor. 

The renovation includes new study and research space for students and three recording studios for multimedia projects. This reflects EMU’s commitment to providing state-of-the-art resources and spaces that support academic success and community engagement.

Alexis Braun Marks, university archivist, said the strategic intent behind the new design is to create an environment that empowers exploration, discovery, and the removal of informational barriers.

Some centers will be temporarily relocated during construction, with some remaining permanent upon completion. The Faculty Development Center is temporarily in 140 Strong Hall and will move back after construction is completed in August. The EMU IT Office has permanently moved to 118 Pray-Harrold.

The renovation was funded by a gift from the Diane and Bruce Halle Foundation. Bruce T. Halle, who died in 2018, is the founder of Discount Tire and an Eastern Michigan University alumnus. 

Please visit the Halle Library website for more information.

About the Diane & Bruce Halle Foundation
The Diane & Bruce Halle Foundation works to strengthen the daily opportunities and lifelong outcomes for the people and communities they serve by identifying and funding outstanding nonprofits to ensure that all people can build healthy, productive, and inspiring lives. It serves as a leader in providing philanthropic resources for organizations working in the fields of human services, health and medical, education, art and culture, and spirituality. Learn more about The Diane & Bruce Halle Foundation by visiting dianeandbrucehallefoundation.org.

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.