Dear Physics, Math and Astronomy Community,
The College of Natural Sciences is embarking on a set of renovations in the Physics, Mathematics and Astronomy Building this summer aimed at improving how the building serves students, faculty and staff. One of the first projects will help create more inviting space for students to study and collaborate, while also providing needed workspace for faculty and other researchers in the Center for Gravitational Physics.
As we talked to folks in the building and considered how to make the best use of space in PMA for the community’s current and future needs, we identified the need to repurpose part of the fourth and fifth floors, in particular the space that currently houses the John M. Kuehne PMA Library. Circulation of materials from the library has been declining, so UT Libraries will relocate its collections and experienced staff to other buildings, and this library will close at the end of this semester.
I am mindful that for members of our community who have worked closely with these librarians and spent time in the space, this change may feel significant. Importantly, the collections themselves will remain fully accessible, with the most frequently used materials relocated to the Life Science Library in the UT Tower. Less frequently used materials will be housed off the main campus and available for same-day or next-day retrieval. The staff who support the collections are remaining with UT Libraries, as well, and will continue to be of service for this community.
I want to thank those of you have spoken up about priorities for this building and who are helping us give greater attention to the ways that the space in PMA can better support all of you in your immediate learning, research and community-building needs. We will continue to share information as renovations move forward and will aim to keep you informed about any changes that might affect you amid these transitions as they get underway.
Sincerely,
