Double height windows allow natural light to penetrate into the interior study zones

Embracing the vision of San Francisco State’s master plan, the Leonard Library begins a new life as an ambitious joint-use facility created by combining the university library with California State Library’s Sutro Collection.

Rather than adding another layer to the current jumble of spaces, built piecemeal over the past 20 years, this renovation of the library creates a unified edifice that provides updated services.

Significant remodeling of the existing structure interleave new life into the complex. Stairways and shafts were relocated to the edges of the structure, opening up the floor plans. Exterior glazing and innovative building interventions bring daylight into all spaces, making them comfortable for contemplation, study, and research. Installation of a high-density, automated book storage system also frees up valuable floor space to allow greater incorporation of technological resources.

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