The next chapter of the College begins with a long-awaited, full-scale retrofit, renovation, and modernization of the campus library building, St. Albert Hall.
Improvements and Enhanced Features
This renovation is more than a building project. It is a bold investment in our academic mission and in the success of every student and scholar who comes to Saint Mary’s.
Student-Centered Environment
Flexible, student-centered spaces designed for both quiet study and group collaboration.
Expanded Spaces
Learning Lab, Graduate Commons, and additional study rooms.
Scholarship Showcases
A refreshed environment that showcases student and faculty scholarship.
Innovation Areas
Areas dedicated to games, exhibitions, and creative expression.
Safety Enhancements
Improved HVAC systems, new sprinklers, better accessibility, and seismic upgrades to improve overall safety.
Library Project Timeline
December 19, 2025
Saint Albert Hall closes.
January 5, 2026
Course reserves and material pick-up for Jan Term begins in the Power Plant.
February 2, 2026
Interim library space in the Power Plant opens to students.
Fall 2027
Anticipated re-opening of the renovated library building.
Our Future Library
Renowned Architecture Firm
Saint Mary’s is partnering with renowned library architecture firm Noll & Tam to design the modernized library. For more than 25 years Noll & Tam Architects has focused on the design of educational, institutional, and public buildings – libraries, community/recreational centers, civic centers, public safety buildings, and universities and community college facilities. Previous projects include the Award Winning Hayward Library and Community Learning Center, Half Moon Bay Library, Contra Costa College Library, and Los Gatos Library.
Campus Resources
While the library building is temporarily closed for modernization, all core library services continue in full from the SMC Power Plant, including research help, material pickup, course reserves, and technology lending. In addition, students will have access to a variety of alternative study spaces across campus, ensuring there are still plenty of comfortable places to work, collaborate, and study.
See details on services and interim spaces on the Library’s dedicated Interim Services and Spaces page.
