What does it take to renovate a library built in 1927 while preserving its architectural integrity?

In short: deep collaboration, sharp problem-solving and experts who can interpret century‑old drawings as confidently as today’s digital plans.

Duke University’s beloved Lilly Library, a fixture of East Campus for nearly 100 years, was originally designed for quiet, independent study. But today’s students need something more dynamic. To support a modern academic experience, Duke set out to expand the building, introduce collaborative spaces, upgrade book storage and create a welcoming atrium where students can grab coffee and settle into their studies.

Expanding a historic library by 56,300 square feet, however, brought its own set of challenges. Utility relocation, regulatory compliance and the complexities of integrating new systems into old infrastructure quickly became central to the project. To navigate these hurdles, Duke brought in a team of experts to lead civil engineering design, documentation and construction administration for the renovation and additions — McAdams being one of them.

Where McAdams Comes In: Relocating Utilities

Even with extensive site investigation, construction revealed a multitude of unknown utilities hidden beneath the surface. Addressing these surprises required close coordination between McAdams and general contractor LeChase, with both teams adapting designs in real time as new information emerged.

The most significant challenge involved the depth required to drain the library’s basement level. Sewer and stormwater systems needed to be installed at approximately 20 feet deep, and the relocated utilities had to carry upstream drainage from the south and connect seamlessly to existing systems to the north. These constraints left little room for error in pipe slope design, demanding meticulous engineering to ensure every connection functioned as intended.

Key Design Components

Located on Duke’s East Campus, home to most first-year students, the reimagined Lilly Library is poised to become a vibrant hub for studying, gathering and collaborating. The renovation blends historic preservation with modern functionality, including:

• Southwest entrance linking the library to the East Campus greenspace
• Atrium with café seating for socializing and studying
• Restored Few and Carpenter Reading Rooms, maintaining their original Gothic design
• Compact basement bookstack shelving for upwards of 150,000 volumes
• New testing center, classroom and 16 collaborative study rooms
• Improved accessibility with new ADA design components throughout the interior and exterior space

Construction is underway with the renewed Lilly Library expected to open in Spring 2027 — just in time to welcome a new generation of Duke students.