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The University of Wisconsin at Oshkosh (UWO) will spend $137.6 million to renovate and replace a 60-year-old library and learning commons building. The Polk Learning Commons is severely outdated, with years of deferred maintenance attributed to failing mechanical systems, insufficient learning areas and obsolete amenities. Construction is expected to begin in May 2026.
The Polk Learning Commons will undergo several major changes to ensure it achieves the modern criteria needed to fit the needs of the university’s student body and staff. As part of the project, UWO will demolish the building’s north wing – including the library, connector link and mechanical penthouse – and rebuild it to modern specifications. The restructured project will total 163,000 square feet, slightly smaller than the existing building, but will feature a better use of energy and space to facilitate learning and sustainability.
UWO will build a smaller, flexible learning commons building as part of the renovations. In addition, the university will replace the building’s exterior envelope with an energy efficient facade that aligns the new structure’s design. Plans include building a main building entrance, general access classrooms and meeting spaces.
The university will incorporate a multi-story, interior circulation avenue to provide access to study and communal areas and connect to pedestrian walkways and green spaces. Plans include halving the size of the library collection and building dedicated learning spaces for:
Group study rooms.
Digital multimedia laboratories.
Active learning classrooms.
Experience-driven learning spaces.
Flexible event, instructional whitebox and multi-use areas.
A critical aspect of the project will include ensuring the building’s deferred maintenance issues are addressed. This includes renovating infrastructure systems and operations including HVAC system, pipes, electrical systems, ventilation and lighting. The university will replace windows to mitigate water intrusion, add a fire sprinkler system and repair flooring, walls and doorways. The project will also bring all facilities into ADA-compliance.
Photo courtesy Royalbroil at English Wikipedia
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