Learning Resource Center

Salus University

Elkins Park, PA

Salus University sought to transform its traditional library on the Elkins Park campus into a flexible, media-rich learning commons that reflects how students study and collaborate today. As digital resources replaced many printed collections, the existing library no longer supported the range of environments required for contemporary learning. O Z Collaborative reimagined the 12,000-square-foot facility as the Resource Learning Center, a modern academic space designed to support both individual study and collaborative work. A dramatic new entrance establishes a stronger sense of arrival and draws students into the learning commons. Inside, a sculptural staircase connects the first and second floors, creating visual connection between levels and serving as a central architectural feature.

The renovation focused on creating a brighter and more expansive interior environment. Ceiling heights were increased by exposing the building structure, and extensive interior glazing was introduced to allow light and visibility to move throughout the space. These interventions transform the once enclosed library into an open and inviting academic setting. The learning center provides a variety of study environments that reflect how students work today. Informal café seating and casual study areas support collaboration and interaction, while traditional library tables, individual reading pods, and study carrels offer quieter places for focused study. The program also includes group study spaces and a 50-seat smart classroom.

New lighting strategies reinforce the sense of openness and highlight key architectural elements throughout the space. The renovation also includes entirely new building systems that support the technological and infrastructure needs of a contemporary learning environment. Together, these improvements transform the library into a flexible and welcoming Resource Learning Center that supports the evolving academic needs of Salus University students.

Photographed by Don Pearse

<  Higher Education

Modern office lobby area with reception desk, multiple computer workstations, comfortable seating, and a staircase leading to an upper level, with large windows allowing natural light.
Modern library or educational facility reception area with curved desk, computers, bookshelves, carpeted floor, and a staircase leading to an upper level.
Empty library reception area with a curved wooden desk, computer monitors, and glass walls leading to bookshelves and study areas, with large windows showing a snowy outdoor scene.
An empty modern library or lounge area with colorful chairs, bookshelves, and large windows.
Interior view of a modern office space with a staircase, yellow chairs, and a glass meeting room with blue chairs.
Interior of a modern library with a staircase leading to a lower level, glass walls, and various seating areas with chairs and computers.
Interior view of a modern library or office space with colorful chairs, tables, bookcases, and glass-walled conference room.
Empty classroom with rows of black and red chairs, white tables, large windows showing outside snow and trees, wall-mounted monitors, a whiteboard, and a large television screen.
An office conference room with a white table and blue plastic chairs. Behind the glass wall, there's a staircase and a large open workspace with desks and computers.
Indoor seating area with two red chairs, a round wooden table, and a gray bench, overlooking an outdoor snowy landscape through large glass windows.
Modern and spacious office lounge area with large windows, sitting tables, and lounge chairs.
A modern library lounge with colorful chairs, tables, and bookshelves, enclosed study rooms, and large windows with natural light.
Night view of a modern building with large glass windows showing an interior with seating and lighting, outside the building a snow-covered walkway and snow on nearby plants.
Modern building with large glass windows, surrounded by leafless trees and snow, illuminated as evening falls. Classical-style structure with columns and ornate ironwork is in the foreground.