Carrier Library Renovation Enters Final Year Before Fall 2026 Reopening
Posted August 20, 2025 in Carrier Renovation News, Featured News, Giving to JMU Libraries News, JMU Libraries News
We are just one year away from welcoming the JMU community back to a refreshed and expanded Carrier Library, with the building on track to reopen in August 2026.
The project has been progressing as planned, with structural work nearing completion and interior spaces taking shape. While the building’s exterior may appear nearly finished, significant work remains before the library can reopen. After major construction wraps up in December 2025, it will be time to finalize interiors, install furniture and technology, move collections, and set up staff offices and service points. This is a significant, coordinated effort with many moving parts, designed to bring you a better library experience than ever before.
The Carrier renovation and expansion timeline reflects the scale and ambition of the project. We’re not just updating Carrier—we’re reimagining it. The project blends historic preservation with modern design, creating a vibrant space that will better serve students, faculty, and researchers for decades to come. The transformation of Carrier Library represents a once-in-a-generation investment in the future of academic life at JMU.
When Carrier reopens, it will feature expanded learning spaces, a cutting-edge media studio, and two new entrances that will create a more welcoming and accessible experience. A grand reading room will offer sweeping views, and light-filled interiors will support both quiet study and group work.
Dean of Libraries Bethany Nowviskie notes, “We’re incredibly excited about what’s ahead for JMU and its library system, and grateful for our community’s partnership throughout the renovation process. The new Carrier Library is going to be better than ever in bringing people together and doing what libraries do best: connecting historical knowledge with creative, future-oriented research and production. It’s a place where students, faculty and community members can discover the wisdom of the past — but also access the deep staff expertise, new technologies, and collaboration spaces that can help them create better tomorrows. We can’t wait to welcome everyone into the new space next fall.”
In the meantime, JMU Libraries continues to provide robust support for teaching, research, and learning. Students, faculty, and staff still have access to all the usual library services in four locations and online. Here’s what you need to know about how to use JMU Libraries this fall.
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