Mabee LRC Renovation

The Mabee Learning Resource Center was built in 1980, and it is the last of JBU's buildings needing renovation.

Now, 43 years later, JBU is renovating the LRC to reinvent it as a modern and integrated Academic Success Center and collaborative learning hub. By bringing together the resources of the library, tutoring, writing center, media lab and student support services in a central location we will better meet the needs of today's students.

Total Cost: $11.5 million

The renovation is split into two projects to minimize disruption of campus life.

Project One: Jan. 2024 - April 2024 ($2.5 million)

• Convert the previous broadcast studio to a soundstage for JBU's film program
• Reimagine the old classroom space for a new, improved Media Lab.
• Relocate ITS offices from upstairs to the first floor
• Renovate the bridgeway/concourse from the LRC to Chapman building into a beautiful study and gathering space for students
• Replace outdated mechanical systems

Project Two: May 2025 - January 2026 ($9 million) 

• Move the library to the second floor (digital resource availability has reduced the physical space needed)
• Bring together the IT help desk, student support services, writing and tutoring lab and intercultural engagement spaces on the first floor.
• Add space for the student-run Ground Floor Coffee (currently in the basement of a townhouse) to fuel all that studying.
• Replace outdated mechanical systems.