The Learning Resource Center (LRC) at West Valley College was originally constructed in 1972. The new renovation is extensive and includes: re-envisioned program spaces and functional adjacencies, exterior building skin/façade modifications to improve daylighting and views out, a new roof incorporating north facing light monitors and skylights, upgrades to technology and building systems, and completely new interiors and furniture. It will support various programs and services, including the library’s collections, digital media center, TV/recording studio, writing center, tutorial/assessment center, multiple collaborations spaces, a makerspace, gaming studios, and librarian services/offices.

The existing flat, pancake building is surrounded by lots of existing trees and brush. Its interior was dark and foreboding, and its exterior lacked good visibility for students looking for the building on campus. To address the interior, skylights and roof monitors were strategically added to bring daylight throughout the major public spaces. To address the visibility and presence issues, some existing landscaping was thoughtfully removed and two 50’ tall light beacon towers were introduced – one at the new North main entry and the other at the SW corner near the west entry. These new interventions give the LRC a clear, new identity on campus. The rest of the building also received careful renovation as the existing superstructure, including the roof structure, and some of the existing façades in the east wing remained intact during construction. Upon its completion, the LRC will be a jewel of the campus’ Northeast end and create a new student hub that is tightly knit and integrated into the tree-laden landscape and adjacent creeks.