The Kalmanovitz Library (Campus Library) at University of California, San Francisco, is undergoing two major projects as part of the Facilities Services 25-Year Renewal program. These projects aim to preserve history, support research, and enhance the library's facilities.
The first project centers around the creation of a climate-controlled storage vault for UCSF's Rare Book Collection, which consists of over 15,000 volumes gathered throughout the past 150 years. This new vault will safeguard the university's cherished and unique collection from the perils of fire or water damage. With materials dating back to 1477, it is crucial to maintain optimal conditions to prevent further deterioration caused by light sensitivity, temperature, humidity, and storage conditions.
Polina Ilieva, the library's Archivist, expresses, “The library has been experiencing multiple leaks during rains in its current archives vault located on the 5th floor, requiring frequent relocation of collections, costly rare books restoration, constant monitoring of potential sources of leaks from the roof and walls.”
In close collaboration with the Archives and Special Collections team, the Facilities Services team has developed plans for an archival vault that serves as a creative archival repository, supporting the educational, research, and clinical enterprises of the university. The new Rare Book vault will feature optimal lighting, chillers, a fire suppression system, and temperature and humidity controls, all designed to best preserve these historical materials for future generations' access.
"The new vault will enable us to continue collecting and preserving the cultural and scientific heritage that belongs to all Californians and UCSF's institutional history. These irreplaceable treasures will be maintained under ideal research conditions for future generations."
The second project involves waterproofing the exterior of the Campus Library building. This comprehensive work includes restoring the terraces, fortifying the windows, and completely replacing the roofing system. The building has faced significant water ingress problems in the past, with even minimal rainfall causing multiple leaks throughout the building.
“It’s been a constant battle against the environment!” says Polina.
The waterproofing project and new Rare Book vault combined will be pivotal in safeguarding the university’s archives and special collections. Furthermore, these initiatives will create a safer and more comfortable environment within the Campus Library, facilitating study and granting access to research materials for the campus community.
Following the completion of the waterproofing project, the 13 library terraces will undergo safety upgrades, landscaping, and beautification. These enhancements will provide library users with a safer and more functional space while allowing the terraces to be open to the public for the first time in years.
Both the rare books vault and waterproofing projects are scheduled to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2023. Throughout the construction period, the Campus Library will remain open and accessible to the community.
